Sam J. Rousakis

Sam J. Rousakis died August 21, 2007 in Port St. Lucie, Florida.Sam J. Rousakis was born in Jackson, Michigan, on March 5, 1919 to James and Ruth Rousakis, Greek immigrants from the island of Samos.He was a WWII Veteran and received three purple hearts. Sam became a barber, owning shops in River Rouge and Southgate, MI. Upon retiring and moving to Florida, Sam became known as Santa Claus in the Treasure Coast area, portraying the character for years at various malls, schools and social events. After finishing his time as Santa and continuing to enjoy children, he became a school crossing guard in Port St. Lucie, where he lived with his wife, Ella (Bemis).He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Ella Rousakis; two sons, Rev. Fr. James Rousakis and Steven G. Rousakis; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren and brother, Nick of Bloomfield Hills, MI.Memorial contributions may be made to the Treasure Coast Hospices, 1201 SE Indian Street, Stuart, FL 34997.Services: Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 23, 2007 from 6-8 PM with a Trisagion Service at 7:00 PM at Haisley Funeral Home. A Parastas will be celebrated on Friday, August 24, 2007 at 10:00 AM at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, Ft. Pierce. Burial will take place on Monday, August 27, 2007 at 11:00 AM at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, Florida.