Gus P. Carantza
Mr. Gus P. Carantza, age 99, of Lansing, MI, passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2026. He was born on January 15, 1929, in Jacksonville, FL, to Peter and Athena Carantzas.
He moved to East Chicago, IN, in 1952 where he lived with his aunt and uncle (Helen/George Dimondopolus) and worked for Inland Steel.
During World War II, he first served in merchant marines, and then later the 82nd Airborne, 508th Regiment, where he was trained as a radio operator and completed 19 jumps.
He moved to Lansing, MI, in 1954, where he met his future wife, Betsy Sinadinos. They were married for 72 years.
In 1965 he purchased and operated a Dawn Doughnut’s in East Lansing, MI, where he advertised boxed chicken for $1.05.
From 1968 thru 1984, he owned his own business in Haslett, initially known as Club DooBee and later renamed the Full Moon Saloon. During this time period, he served as the Capital Unit President of the Michigan Licensed Beverage Association. During the early days of punk rock, many upcoming bands played on his stage.
After he retired from the bar business, he worked part-time as a shuttle driver for Williams Volkswagen, where he greatly enjoyed talking with customers.
He was a life member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles #1039, The Order of AHEPA, the American Legion, and member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Lansing, MI.
He is survived by his wife, Betsy, and his three daughters Tina, Laura (Steve Trudgen), and Constance (Ron Byrnes). He was fond of his many nieces, nephews and family friends.
The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 1701 E. Saginaw St., Lansing. The Trisagion service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday at the church, followed by visitation before the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church or the Humane Society.
Arrangements are by the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel.
