SOLAHA Vol. IV, No. 34 John Papadakis Growing in 15th Street by Averill Park – Halcyon days
Renowned restaurateur and football player for USC John Papadakis recalls memories of growing up in the San Pedro 15th Street Vista Del Oro neighborhood by Averill Park and playing sports in the street, memories of all parents looking out for all of the boys (and there were some girls – I was one of them! Our family home 1513 W. 15th St. and JP refers to brother Joseph M. Mardesich, III aka “Mike”).
In a previous stories John’s speaks about his paternal grandfather and patriarch Nick Papadakis, one of ten brothers, emigrating from Greece escaping the Ottoman Empire, to San Pedro around 1907. He was resourceful, established various businesses, built the LaSalle Hotel (now lofts at 255 W. 7th St.SP) that still has his name chiseled on the front)and eventually founded Anchor Liquors and a family dynasty; and about founding the renowned Papadakis Taverna.
Stellar athlete, successful restaurateur, community minded, John is proud father of four, grandfather of eight, married to beloved Donna (nee Schultz) for over 50 years, and clearly inherited his grandfather Nick’s entrepreneurial spirit. Ever the raconteur in his robust eloquent style John has reverence for family heritage and his Greek roots. In past few years he’s pursued a new career as “The Singing Linebacker” and is only rivaled by the late Tony Bennett. John could be his own SOLAHA series.
A key to his success, and happiness ““Love what you’re doing, then it’s contagious…..”