Community Mourns Beloved Owner Of Wading River's Greek Island Diner: 'He Had A Heart Of Gold'

WADING RIVER, NY — A heartbroken Wading River community is mourning the loss of the owner of the Greek Island Diner — a man who touched countless lives not just with his delicious fare but with his genuine love for the diners who made the eatery a part of the fabric of their lives for years.

"With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Andrea 'Andy' Drepanis on January 8 at the age of 63, after a short but fierce battle with cancer," the Greek Island Diner family said in a post. "Andy was the proud owner of the Greek Island Diner, where he poured his heart into every meal and treated everyone who walked through the doors like family. A devoted husband, father, papou, brother, uncle, and friend, Andy worked tirelessly for the people he loved and the community he served. His presence, kindness, and love for bringing people together will be deeply missed but never forgotten."

Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 11, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., with a prayer service at 8 p.m. at Alexander Rothwell Funeral Home in Wading River. Funeral services will take place on Monday, January 12, at 11:00 a.m. at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Assumption in Port Jefferson, followed by burial at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Center Moriches.

"Thank you for keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers," the post said.

According to his obituary, published with the Alexander-Rothwell Funeral Home: "Andy, a natural-born leader, always aspired to own his own business and spent much of his youth working in a diner in Jamaica, Queens, alongside his father, where he learned the restaurant business from the ground up."

The obituary continued: "Those early years shaped his strong work ethic and love for diner life. In 2007, Andy took a chance of his own, opening a diner in a small shopping center in Wading River, New York — something he was incredibly proud of: the Greek Island Diner.

"What started as a dream became Andy’s life’s work, and it was never just a place to earn a living for him. Andy was most comfortable in the kitchen, pouring his love into every meal he sent out, cooking not just for his community but for his family. When he wasn’t in the kitchen, you could often find him in the front booth — his favorite spot — sharing a meal, swapping stories, laughing, and forming genuine connections."

Andy, the obituary said, "had a rare gift for turning familiar faces into friends and friends into family. He gave freely of his time, worked harder than anyone we knew, and cared deeply about his family, his staff, and every person who walked through his doors."

Family meant everything to Andy, those who loved him said. "Every long day and early morning was done with them in mind. He was a provider, a protector, and a steady presence who showed his love through actions more than words. He was endlessly proud of and deeply committed to his loving wife, Marian; his children, Andrew (Lisa) and William (Arielle); his grandchildren, Rosalia, Michael, William, and Zachary; his sister, Phyllis (Steve); his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews; and his extended family — always putting his loved ones first. Andy’s absence leaves an ache that words can’t fully express. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him — his family, friends, and everyone whose life he touched. His presence, warmth, and steady way of caring for others live on in the stories we share and the values he held close and passed down: hard work, loyalty, and love."

The community was devastated by the news, reaching out on social media to offer their heartfelt expressions of sorrow.

"So sorry to hear about Andy’s passing. He was so loved by the whole SWR community and he will be sorely missed," said John McMorris. "Sending lots of love and hugs to the family. "

Sue Koz wrote: "Being a lifelong born and raised resident in Wading River, I have to say when Andy and Marian first opened the diner, it was a first for Wading River! A diner, in Wading River?! No way! Well, yes, way! Andy brought that to us all. Proudly. And you definitely feel like more than a customer every time you enter. And that was Andy. I remember when my husband Mark first met him and immediately said what a great guy he was. He will never be forgotten around here. Our condolences to all of his wonderful family, from Mark and I."

Nikki Bruce added: "I worked next door in Wading River Pizza many years ago and had the pleasure of getting to know Andy and his beautiful family. He was always one to give me great advice about my future or just a listening ear. He has a heart of gold and will be tremendously missed. My sincerest condolences to you Marion, Andrew, Willie and all the extended family."

Charlie Pullara wrote: "So sorry to hear of Andy’s passing. He was the best neighbor we could’ve asked for. Our hearts go out to the Drepanis family."

Dan Virdone said: "The diner and family especially embodied everything a small-town restaurant should be. They produced delicious meals at value and always, always supported local clubs, teams, and causes. Andy always greeted guests with a smile and asked how everything was going. He will surely be missed but I know the family will continue doing what Andy started."

"I am so sorry to hear this news," said Andee Llewellyn. " I love the Greek Island Diner. What a terrible loss; my heart goes out to the family. May he rest in peace."

Diane Gibbs-Brayer added: "A tremendous loss to the community. He was the best. Always took care of the Wading River Fire Department, especially the volunteer EMS. Rest easy, Andy."

"Condolences to the family," said Wanda Youdelman. "Andy always had a smile and was so proud of the diner. He will be missed."

"He was amazing, so caring and understanding," said Carol O'Connor Del Vecchio. "He will greatly be missed. Rest in peace, Andy. Much love and hugs to the broken hearts of the the Greek Island Diner family."

"The kindest, most generous man, who will be forever missed," said Penni Stathakos. "Sending my deepest condolences to Marian and their whole family. May his memory be eternal."

Holly Stawski summed up the grief so many were feeling after hearing the sad news. "My heart is broken, along with the hearts of the whole community. Andy was truly a special man and I'm grateful for having known him and his family. Rest well, Andy."

"May the angels lead him into paradise," said Cheryl Morrison MacDougall. "Andy and Marian created a wonderful meeting (and eating) place in Wading River. Jim and I send our deepest condolences and prayers to his family, friends and employees."

"He was a gem," said Vanessa Logan.

"May he rest in peace," wrote Donna Beyer-Amodei.