Harry Mokas, Jr.

Mokas, Harry Jr. - Age 96 - of Centerville, Ohio, passed away on June 19, 2024.

Best known as “Mike”, he was born and raised in Ashland, KY, graduating from Ashland HS in 1945. After HS, Mike joined the US Navy, roaming the Pacific, and serving as a Radio Specialist aboard the AO36 US KENNEBEC. He was lucky to have travelled around the world many times before being honorably discharged in Dec 1947. Following his military service, Mike worked as a draftsman for a small company in Ashland, KY., and later designed mechanical equipment for Ashland-area manufacturing companies.

He met the love of his life, Joan (nee Stoycos) in Dayton, Ohio. After a 3-year courtship, they married on May 2, 1954, in the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church. He cherished and celebrated that union for over 65 years. Mike and Joan loved their church dearly. Mike served on the church parish council for three years (as treasurer) and they both worked at the popular Dayton Greek Festival for many decades.

In Dayton, Mike worked for the family’s downtown restaurant (called the Riviera) from 1953-1958. Mike was a natural in the restaurant business, having worked for his father’s food and beverage establishment (called The Busy Bee) in Ashland, KY, while growing up. Looking to better support his growing family, Mike attended the University of Kentucky, College of Business, where he received his BA in Accounting. After graduation, he worked as an accountant for the National Cash Register (NCR) company in Dayton. Retiring after 25 years, Mike was hired as a bookkeeper for the Montgomery County Probate Court, working for the Honorable Judge George Gounaris and with long-time/best friend Gregory Caras for 17 years.

Mike and Joan had two sons, Evan (born 1955) and William (born 1956). Mike was preceded in death by his father Harry, mother Sultana, sister Helen (Lett), brother James, brother John, son Evan, and wife Joan. Mike is survived by his son William, daughter-in-law Julie (of New Smyrna Beach, FL), grandchildren William (& Nicole), Joseph, John (& Abbey), Zachary (& Abby) Vallandingham (of Akron, OH), Michael (of New Smyrna Beach, FL), and great grandchildren William, Bromley, Olivia, and Mallory. 

Mike loved to design & build things, play golf, play cards, and was a financial investment enthusiast. Of his many accomplishments, one came at an early age. At 11 years old, he was crowned the Punt, Pass, and Kick Champion for the state of Kentucky! It was that competitive/winning spirit that guided him the rest of his life.

Gifted from God, Mike lived a wonderful life, able to enjoy his family and friends for a very long time. Mike spent the past few years living at Vienna Springs Health Campus in Miami Township, adored and cherished by all who knew him there. Many thanks to the staff, nurses, and aides for their kind and compassionate care while he was there.

Mike will be sorely missed by his family and friends. He will forever be remembered for his kindness, gentleness, compassion, and loving spirit.

A private ceremony will be held at the Greek Orthodox Church with interment at Woodland cemetery.