Michael A. Pappas
April 12, 1960 – June 30, 2024
It is with sadness yet with hope in the Resurrection that the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco conveys news of the passing of Michael Pappas, Executive Director of Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap, California. Michael reposed in the Lord on June 30, 2024 after a brief illness.
“I recall meeting Michael during his studies at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, and he was always friendly and eager to learn. He was dedicated to his studies and attending daily worship in the Chapel, and this is where he truly found a ‘home’ in the church” remarked His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco. “His dedication as Executive Director of the Ranch for 17 years was unsurpassed, and he will be remembered for the warmth and hospitality he extended to countless people during his tenure. On behalf of the Metropolis of San Francisco, I convey my deepest sympathy to his brothers and their families as I know they are deeply mourning Michael’s passing.”
Prior to accepting his position at the Ranch in 2007, Michael spent considerable time serving various institutions and ministries with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. Most notably, he was the Director of Ionian Village, Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries for the Archdiocesan District, Program Director for Ionian Village, and Associate Director of the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries for the Archdiocese. He also served as the Pastoral Assistant at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Modesto, CA.
Michael received his Master of Divinity degree from Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from California State University Stanislaus.
He was a proud Cretan and loved all this associated with his beloved homeland – the music, the food, the music and the dance. Mike was also a longtime member of the Pancretan Association of America and served as Pancretan Youth Association President from 1986 to 1988.
Michael is survived by his brothers Nick (Robin) Pappas of Modesto, and Paul (Wendy) Pappas of Sumas, WA. He is also survived by his nephews Gregory (Joanna), Joey, Zachary (Olivia) and Jacob (Jewel); great-nephews Reid, Drew; great-niece Eleanor; as well as many cousins and extended family. While working at the Ranch, Michael formed several close friendships with his co-workers whom he cared for as family and also greatly mourn his passing. He was predeceased by his father, George, in 1985, and his mother, Argiro (Lula), in 2011.
The funeral service for Michael will be prayed on Monday, July 8 at 11:00 a.m. at the Monastery of the Theotokos the Life-Giving Spring in Dunlap, CA, and will be officiated by His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco. At the request of the family, a scholarship is being established in Michael’s name to provide for youth participation in Ranch programs. Donations can made online or mailed to Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center, P.O. Box 400, Dunlap, CA 93621-0400 (Memo: Michael Pappas Scholarship Fund).
May his memory be eternal!