Obituary of John George Katros

John George Katros passed away four days after his 83rd birthday early Friday morning at his home in Winter Haven under the compassionate care of Cornerstone Hospice. John was the oldest child of Greek immigrants, George and Rea Katros, born June 23rd, 1931 in Sanford, Florida. His family moved to Polk County in 1934 where they opened the well-known Bluebird Drive-In restaurant in Winter Haven. He was a graduate of the class of 1951 at Winter Haven High School and attended Florida Southern College. He enlisted with the Army National Guard and it was at a National Guard Christmas dance that he met his future wife, Margaret Lamb. They were married on August 6, 1954 making this year their 60th anniversary. A lifetime resident of Winter Haven, John began his career with BF Goodrich in 1953 working his way up to manager and in 1959, opened his own business, Cypress Tire, which has operated under his ownership at its' original location on Highway 17 in Winter Haven. John began selling new tires, retreads and appliances serving the local residents and many commercial business accounts. He was a member of the Florida Independent Tire Dealers Association for many years and named " Tire Dealer of the Year" by this organization in 1994. John gave his time to various civic organizations, namely Kiwanis Club of Winter Haven, where he served as president as well as coaching the Kiwanis Little League baseball team. Active in his childrens' schools through the PTA's and their various activities, he was always willing to volunteer his time. He was a member of Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce since 1959, Symphony Guild of Winter Haven, Polk County Seminole Booster Club and the Inman Park Church of Christ. John and Margaret loved RV travel as it enabled them to take along beloved Labs, Jake and Buck. In addition to destinations throughout the USA, John took the RV on a trek to Alaska two times. A FSU fan since 75, their Fall travel always centered around FSU football, home or away. Most recently, John was confined to home due to health and mobility but continued to maintain his positive attitude that served him well throughout his life. Johns proudest accomplishment was his family. He's survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Margaret, sons George Katros, Polk City (Debbie Careathers), Wade Katros, Ft. Lauderdale, daughter, Lisa Endres Winter Haven (Bob), his sister, Julie Chrisoheris, Glyfada, Greece, brother Mitchell Katros Winter Haven (Heide), grandson, Porter Summers Winter Haven, nephews, Andrew Katros, Hans (Jamie) Katros, Winter Haven, Manoli, Nick, George and Michael Chrisoheris, Athens Greece. Funeral service to be held at Oak Ridge Funeral Care, Winter Haven, Tuesday, July 1, with visitation from 10-11 a.m., service following at 11 a.m. Burial will take place at Lakeside Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Symphony Guild of Winter Haven, Humane Society of Winter Haven or charity of your choice.