Dino Koutroubis

It is with heavy hearts but hope in resurrection that we announce the passing of our beloved Kosta “Dino” Koutroubis who left us peacefully on April 21, 2025, at the age of 83 surrounded by his family in the comfort of his home.

He was born in Kastoreio “Kastania,” Laconia Greece on February 22, 1942 to the late Panagos  and Marika Koutroubis. Kostaki, as he was called in his younger years, was the second of four siblings but stood out amongst his family with his signature redish-blonde hair and blue eyes.  He grew up between his beautiful village, which is at the base of Mt Taygetos, and their mountain cottage at roughly 1,100m above sea level.  His father Panagos owned a lumber company and Dino started working with them at a very young age, even beginning to drive a truck at the age of 13.

Dino carried the warmth and philotimo of his homeland throughout his life. He immigrated to the United States in 1966 at the age of 24 with the dream of building a better life, and through hard work, he did just that.  He started off his new life as a painter in Lynn, Massachusetts for his first year and then spent the next decade in Asbury Park, New Jersey painting new developments with thousands of homes. In 1976, he moved to Norwalk, Connecticut to work at his older brother’s restaurants (The Pier & Skippers) where he spent the next 20 years as a cook. In the mid 90’s he transitioned back to painting under his company, Dynamic Coatings, and worked tirelessly at his craft until his retirement.

Dino was a gentle soul with a big heart who was happiest in the kitchen of his home. Known for his love of cooking, he took pride in preparing meals that brought his family together. His signature dish, Youvetsi, a lovingly prepared roasted lamb with orzo, became a treasured treat for family gatherings. In case you didn’t eat lamb… he would grill platters of pork chops, chicken and steaks to make sure no one left hungry. However, it wasn’t just his family that he fed, around dinner time his house would suddenly fill with his son’s friends who loved his cooking and always had a seat as his dinner table.

Dino is survived by his devoted wife, Zoe, with whom he shared nearly 43 years of love. He also leaves behind two cherished sons, Panagioti and Stavros, who carry forward his strength and generous spirit. He is also survived by his brother Georgios and wife, Efthimia Kutrubis of Norwalk, his sister Angeliki and husband, Georgios Linardakis of Kastania, Greece, his sister-in-law Pamela Koutroubis and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his beloved brother Demetrios “Taki” Koutroubis, and his nieces Maria and Sophia whose memory he held close to his heart.

Dino will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his kindness and generosity and the iconic smile that was always on his face.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, April 26th, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Saint George Greek Orthodox Church, followed by a  funeral service. Burial will take place at a later date in Kastania Greece, where Dino’s journey began and where he will be laid to rest.

Please visit www.Raymond.Care to leave an online condolence for the family.