It is with broken hearts that we share the passing of Harry (Haridimos) Dracon of Holliston, Massachusetts. Harry passed away on September 10, 2023, his 85th birthday, a great loss to all who knew and loved him.
Harry was born on September 10, 1938, to Mary and Gregory Dracon, both of Greece. He grew up in Astoria, Queens, New York, with his two sisters, Emily and Irene, honoring Greek culture, language and tradition. After attending Brooklyn Technical High School, he studied Electrical Engineering at Columbia University before joining the US Navy and achieving the rank of lieutenant. After his service, he joined IBM in Endicott NY, completed graduate studies at Syracuse University, and began a 30 year career in Technology.
In 1963, Harry met the love of his life, Evelyn (Efthimion). After a five-week courtship, he employed his substantial powers of persuasion to convince her to marry him. The couple went on to build a beautiful life and family; they were happily married for 60 years. Harry loved all things Greek, French, woodworking, opera, math and language. He was a life-long scholar, always seeking to understand the world. When not pouring over a spreadsheet or book on French grammar, he was listening to opera, learning about wine, or building something in his shop. Whatever he was doing, he was simultaneously petting the family dog or cat and treating us all to his bigger-than-life heart and laugh. While Harry loved many things, the sun rose and set with his wife, Evie. Family meant everything to him; he was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle and beloved Poppy (grandfather).
Harry will be deeply missed by his wife, Evie, their two children, Hara (Russ) Charlier, and Greg (Kacey) Dracon; grandchildren Devon (Matt), Lili, and Zoe, and his much-loved cat, Zasu. He is preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Gregory Dracon; sisters, Emily Gianarkis and Irene Dracon; and parents-in-law, Sylvia and Efstratis Efthimion.
A private memorial service will be held to celebrate Harry’s life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, his favorite nonprofit organization. T2t.org or 2361 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10306. Arrangements are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Holliston, www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com