Former East Rockaway resident Gus Markides, 81

Longtime East Rockaway resident Gus Markides died suddenly on Oct. 26. He was 81.

Markides was happiest surrounded by family, whom he loved above all else. As a husband, father, grandfather and brother, his wisdom, encouragement and support for his loved ones was unparalleled. Always at the head of the table, he was also the leader of the family, literally and spiritually. He so enjoyed telling his stories and jokes surrounded by eager listeners. He shared his life with his loved ones, and his death leaves them with a hole in their hearts and an empty chair at the table. His loved ones said he will always remain in their hearts and he will be missed.

From his roots in Far Rockaway, Queens, to his home in East Rockaway, to his cabin in the Catskills, it was always family first and foremost. But he made time for other important endeavors in his life, proudly serving in the New York City Auxiliary Police for 50 years, where he was recently promoted to inspector. He also served as commander of his local American Legion chapter, and was a proud flag-carrying veteran of the U.S. Army. Markides loved his old cars and it seemed like he attended just about every car show he could.

He was a friend and mentor to many, and was widely respected and admired.

Markides was the patriarch of the family, and he is survived by his wife of 60 years, Marilyn; his two children, Mitchell (Rosa) and Michelle (Eric); his five grandchildren, Alessandra (Charlie), Gabriella, Matthew, Hannah and Jason, all of whom he adored in turn and doted on with pride and admiration; and his sisters, Catherine (Angelo) and Georgia.