Peter A. Fokas

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Peter A. Fokas of Monroe Township, New Jersey, who passed away at home on June 8, 2023 at the age of 87, surrounded by his loving family.

Peter was born on November 14, 1935 in Cephallonia, Greece, to Catherine and Anthony Fokas. He migrated to the United States at the age of 17 in search of the American dream and proudly became an American citizen on August 6, 1963. It was on a Circle Line tour of NYC that he met his wife-to-be, Virginia, who was on her high school senior trip. They dated and later married, first settling in Brooklyn, NY and then moving to Staten Island, where they lived and raised their family prior to moving to NJ. For over 30 years, Peter was the proud owner of Richmond Garden Center in Staten Island. He loved flowers and gardening but mostly adored serving the people who patronized his store. It was truly the love of his life. He was also an avid hunter and loved going to Atlantic City.   

He was predeceased by his wife of 57 years, Virginia (Colonna), who passed away in 2021; sisters Angelina and Androniki (Nikki); and brothers Nicholas and Michael. He is survived by his daughters, Katherine Fokas of Monroe Township; Christine Monaco and her husband John, also of Monroe Township; and two cherished grandsons, John Peter and Michael.  

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Monday evening, June 12th, from 6:00 until 9:00 PM at Spotswood Funeral Home, 475 Main Street, Spotswood. Funeral services will begin with a 10:30 AM Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, June 13th, from Holy Trinity Church, Helmetta, followed by entombment in Holy Cross Burial Park, South Brunswick.

In lieu of flowers, donations honoring Peter's memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.