Charles Constantine Caroulis

It is with great sadness that the Caroulis Family announces the passing of Charles Constantine Caroulis at the age of 97 due to the sudden onset of Covid. Charles was born on Nov. 3, 1926, to George and Eugenia Karaoulis in Philadelphia, PA. He was a loving husband to his wife Betty and a devoted father to his six children. A prominent career as a Merchant Marine allowed Charles to travel to every continent except Australia and Antarctica, enriching his life with experiences and stories that he shared with his family. He was a wealth of knowledge and instilled a love of adventure and learning in his children.

Affectionally known as Papou to his grand- and great-grandchildren, he was legendary with telling an endless amount of jokes fueled by a long-time subscription to Reader’s Digest. He loved to stay up-to-date on politics and news, take a walk to buy the paper and a pretzel, and meet with his Greek friends.

He was an exceptional driver, having never been involved in an accident with another car throughout his years behind the wheel. Early in his career, he honed his skills as a taxi driver before becoming a Merchant Marine. After retiring, he continued to share his expertise as a school bus driver.

He is preceded in death by his parents, George and Eugenia Karaoulis, his wife, Elizabeth “Betty” Caroulis, and three children, George Caroulis (Cindy), Charles “Chuck” Constantine Caroulis, and Kathleen Caroulis, as well as his siblings, James Caroulis and Helen Pappas. He is survived by his children, Theodora Knight (the late Bruce), Elizabeth French (Daniel), and Katherine Mariotti (Mike), his brother, Nick Karaoulis, ten grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren with another great-grandchild due in November.

Throughout his life, Charles was known for his kindness, warmth, and the love he shared with family and friends. His presence will forever be treasured and deeply missed. The Caroulis family is grateful for the many years and profound impact he made on their lives.

The family has requested that donations be made to the American Heart Association in memory of Charles Contantine Caroulis.