Stephen “Steve” Karekos, Sr., a devoted father, retired United States Air Force veteran, firefighter captain, barber, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2026, at the age of 92, with his family by his side.
Steve was born in Haverhill, Massachusetts, the son of Costos Karekos and Rallou (Handakas) Karekos, who immigrated to the United States from Lesvos, Greece. He grew up in Haverhill as one of ten children and was raised with the values of hard work, perseverance, faith, and devotion to family.
Steve proudly dedicated 40 years of service to the United States Air Force through both his military and civilian service. He was stationed at several Air Force bases throughout his service and served during the Korean era and in Da Nang, Vietnam. While stationed at Eglin Air Force Base, he met the love of his life, Doris Fox, who was also serving in the military. Their meeting began a beautiful journey together, and they shared many years of love, family, and wonderful memories.
Steve completed his military career at MacDill Air Force Base, where he served as a Firefighter Captain at Crash Fire Station. He earned numerous military medals and commendations in recognition of his service. Following his military retirement, Steve continued serving his country and community through 20 years of Civil Service at MacDill Air Force Base, continuing his work with Crash Fire Station.
Steve later became a longtime barber in South Tampa and owned and operated Gandy Barbershop, where he spent many years doing what he loved. The barbershop became much more than a place for a haircut; it was a place where friendships were formed, stories were shared, and generations of customers came to know Steve for his humor, warmth, and genuine love of people. His years as a barber brought him countless lasting friendships.
Steve was a longtime parishioner of St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church in Tampa, where his faith and Greek heritage remained an important part of his life.
Steve is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Doris Karekos; his parents, Costos Karekos and Rallou Karekos; and his siblings, John Karekos, Mary Varonfakis, Christo Karekos, Eleanor Dagianis, Lucy MacDougall, Peter Karekos, Betty Church, and Patricia Sullivan.
He is survived by his four children, Wendy (Sheldon) Newman, Stephen (Haydee) Karekos Jr., Julie (Denny) Cherry, and Tracey “Kenny” Karekos; his sister, Dorothy Early; his six grandchildren, Clint (Michelle) Newman, Shelby (Brian) Carrero, Summer (Frank) Moya, Stevi (Josh) Barton, Nicky Newman, and Riley Karekos; and his eight great-grandchildren, Colton Carrero, Brantley Carrero, Charlotte Moya, Penelope Moya, August “Augie” Moya, Lucas Barton, Dylan Barton, and William Barton.
Steve also leaves behind his beloved dog, Daisy, who was a cherished companion and brought him great joy. His lifelong love of dogs was a special part of who he and Doris were, and Daisy held a particularly special place in his heart.
Steve will be remembered for his playful sense of humor, his ability to make others laugh, and, above all, his deep love and devotion to his family. He had a way of making people feel welcome, whether they were sitting in his barber chair, sharing a story with him, or gathered around the family table. To his grandchildren and great grandchildren, he was lovingly known as Papou, a name that will forever be associated with his laughter, love, and the many memories they shared. His life was one of service, laughter, friendship, and family, and his memory will live on in the many lives he touched and the stories that will be told for generations to come.
In Lieu of flowers please donate to The Fisher House Helping Military Families.
Services for Stephen will be held on October 17th at Veterans Funeral Care, 830 North Belcher Rd, Clearwater, FL 33756. Visitation will begin at 10AM, with services at 11AM and a reception at 12:30PM. Stephen’s interment will be held at Bay Pines National Cemetery on October 19th at 10AM.
