Pete Argyres

Beloved husband, father, and papou passed peacefully from this life to life eternal on September 29, 2012. Pete was born August 1, 1923, in Kalamata, Greece to Maria and Konstantine Argyres, who have preceded him in death. Pete was a very rambunctious child and was often in trouble. He survived many trials and tribulations during his early life in Greece. Pete was always a rebel and spent years in the Andartiko fighting against the Germans in WWII. His oldest sister, Voula Pappas, who has preceded him in death, brought Pete from Kalamata to Albuquerque in 1955. He had only four 20-dollar bills in his pocket, spoke no English, but envisioned living the American dream. He spent countless hours as a dishwasher at Coney Island, which is now Lindy's. From there, he went to work at the Blue Spruce Lounge. There were many stories of bar fights and antics of late nightlife in the 1950's. Pete began writing to his future wife, Mary, while she was living in New York. He flew her to Albuquerque on a Thursday, and on Saturday, he asked her to marry him. They recently celebrated 52 years together. Pete purchased the Town House, which was primarily a bar and dance hall. He was a gifted chef and master of public relations. Pete took a risk, bought a grill and began selling shish-ka-bobs and burgers. The Town House became known for Pete's food, his famous Greek salad dressing, and the place where deals were sealed over a two-martini lunch. Although he was proud of his successful restaurant, he felt his greatest accomplishment was his three children, Ellen, Dean, and Christina. Pete did not have the opportunity to finish school, yet he insisted his own children go to college and beyond. All three children graduated from the University of New Mexico. Ellen graduated from law school. Dean received a master's degree and Christina graduated from Harvard, and is currently a Metro Court judge. Pete will always be remembered for his generosity, his sense of humor, and his constant quest for learning. Pete was preceded in death by his sisters, Eleni Argyres, Voula Pappas, and Angelina Katsaros. Along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, he leaves behind his beloved wife Mary, daughter Ellen and husband Art Martinez, son Dean and wife Sharlene, and daughter Christina. He also leaves behind four amazing grandchildren, Alexa, Pano, John and Chryso, whom he was proud of and loved deeply. His last advice to Alexa was school today for a better tomorrow. His legacy will live on with the next generation. The viewing will be from 5 to 7 pm on Tuesday, October 2, at French Mortuary, 1111 University N.E., followed immediately by the Trisagion. The funeral will be on Wednesday, October 3, at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 308 High St S.E., at 10:30am. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to St. George Greek Orthodox Church.