Evans Gus Cocallas

AIKEN, SC- Evans Gus Cocallas, age 80, passed away April 18, 2015.

Ev was born in Evanston, Illinois to Gust and Frances Cocallas. He attended Evanston High School and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Lake Forest College. During college, he earned four varsity letters in basketball, was president of Phi Delta Theta fraternity and vice president of the Lettermen's Club. He was inducted into the National Hellenic Basketball Hall of Fame. He had a very successful career in sales. First in the automobile fleet leasing business and then 27 years with Champion Sportswear until he retired in 1999.

Ev married Barbara Reynolds on March 3, 1980. They lived in Inverness, Illinois until they retired in 2000 to Woodside Plantation, Aiken, SC. Their marriage lasted thirty years until Barbara passed away on April 5, 2010. Three years later, Barbara sent an angel to Ev in the form of Laura DeCillis. They were a twosome until the very end.

He is survived by his son, Todd (Cherie) Cocallas of Eden Prairie, MN; his daughter, Lynne Cocallas of Lincolnshire, IL; his grandchildren, Coty and Evan Cocallas of Eden Prairie, MN and his significant other, Laura DeCillis. In addition to Barbara and his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, James (Tiana) Cocallas.

A memorial service will be held Friday, May 8, 2015 at 11 AM in the George Funeral Chapel. The Reverend Doctor Henry Chennault officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 10 AM at the funeral home. A private reception will be held at Woodside Plantation Country Club. There will be a private gathering to spread his ashes. Honorary pallbearers will be Gene Waterfall, Joe Schmitt, Marc Rhodes, Jerry Potter, and Jack Baum

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Make A Wish Foundation, 4742 N. 24th St., Phoenix, AR 85106 or by calling 800-722-9474.

The Historic George Funeral Home, 211 Park Ave., SW, Aiken, SC 29801 (803.649.6234) in charge of arrangements.