Alex Spanos
September 28 1923 – October 9, 2018
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco joins with the Spanos family upon learning of the passing of their beloved father and patriarch, Alexander Gus Spanos, who reposed in the Lord on October 9, 2018 at the age of 95 years old.
“This is truly the passing of an era. Alex’s story proved that the American dream was a reality, and he was grateful for the opportunities given to his parents when they came to this country, as well as the vast experiences he had throughout his life,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco. “While he had a successful career in real estate development, as the owner of an NFL franchise, and a renowned philanthropist, Alex was most comfortable surrounded by his loved ones. After nearly 70 years of marriage, his beloved Faye departed this world just two months ago, and his heart longed to be with her. They are now reunited in heaven and both are restored to wholeness and joy in the Lord’s Heavenly Kingdom.”
Please keep the entire Spanos family in your prayers as they grieve the passing of Alex – their father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend and brother-in-Christ.
Further details on the services will be provided as the arrangements are finalized.
May his memory be eternal!
Statement from the Spanos Family on the Passing of Alexander Gus Spanos
It is with heavy hearts that the Spanos family announces the death of Alexander Gus Spanos, founder of A.G. Spanos Companies and owner of the Chargers NFL Franchise. Alex passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on Tuesday morning. He was 95.
From humble beginnings to becoming the top apartment builder across the nation and the owner of an NFL franchise, Alex proved that dreams do come true.
Alex was the embodiment of the American dream and leaves behind a legacy of passion and hard work. Born the son of Greek immigrants in 1923, Alex’s tireless work ethic and fearlessness was instilled in him when at only eight years old, he began working in his father’s bakery before and after school. A tough upbringing coupled with the unshakeable belief that he could accomplish anything he set his mind to drove him to succeed and overcome countless obstacles.
In 1984, Alex fulfilled one of his lifelong goals by purchasing the San Diego Chargers. His intensely competitive nature and passion for sport made him the perfect fit to be a part of the NFL family. One of his most memorable moments was watching the Chargers beat the Pittsburgh Steelers to play in Super Bowl XXIX. He was equally passionate about the franchise’s impact off the field, implementing many Chargers’ community outreach programs that exist to this day. The Chargers Community Foundation - which he created and funded – still supports numerous critical causes, individuals in need and organizations supporting the community.
Aside from being a celebrated businessman and generous philanthropist, Alex’s greatest joy and source of pride was his family. His beloved wife Faye, his four children, his 15 grandchildren and his 12 great-grandchildren always came first. Throughout Alex’s life, Faye, his wife of nearly 70 years, was his rock and inspiration. It was Faye’s unconditional love and support that gave him the strength and peace of mind to take risks and pursue his goals unfettered. Together they contributed generously to worthy causes and charities. Hospitals, universities, scholarship funds, youth programs, sports programs, churches, schools – all were recipients of their incredible generosity.
Through it all, Alex never forgot his roots and took immense pride in both his Hellenic heritage and Greek Orthodox faith. It was through that faith he learned compassion and empathy. Whenever he was called upon to help, he always delivered. Passionate about education, helping the underprivileged and enabling those with a dream to better their lives, he took pride in setting an example for others to follow.
Fiercely loyal, competitive, passionate and loving – that was Alex Spanos.
We have no words that can adequately express our sadness with his passing. We will continue to honor his legacy by dedicating ourselves to making a difference in the community and throughout our country.
As Alex would say, "Believe in yourself. There is nothing you can’t do if you set your mind to it."
Photo Credit: K.C. Alfred – San Diego Union-Tribune