Peter Costos Paicos

DR. PETER C. PAICOS (1919-2019)

The journey for young Peter Paicos (Paicopoulas) began in 1919 in Stoneham, Massachusetts. June 11 is the date on the birth certificate but rumor has it that the real date was the 10th, as olde Dr. Kerrigan who brought him into this world, kept the paperwork in his jacket for a day or two. Born the son of two Greek immigrants: Eleni (Tournas) and Costas Paicopoulas, he was older brother to young Basil. He grew up in a small town ripe with adventure and opportunity. At a young age, he became a caddy for Dr. Kerrigan, who encouraged him to explore the profession of Podiatry. Paicos enrolled in the Middlesex University of Podiatry, but the Second World War redirected his compass. However, before shipping off to the armed forces he committed his heart to his sweetheart Edna, who upon his return became his wife of 72 years.

While in the Army, Paicos who had a pilot’s ticket, was volunteered for a new program: The Army Air Force Glider Program. The training was extensive and challenging. By the age of 26 he had earned his glider wings as well as second lieutenant pilot status. Paicos served with the 305th Troop Carrier Squadron in the role of combat glider pilot, a harrowing and death defying mission. He was part of an elite squad, many of who perished by crash landing on their first mission. Paicos was deployed to the European theater participating in many missions including Operation Varsity, Rhineland which was the crossing of the Rhine river into Germany; six weeks later the war was over.

Upon his return to the states he again redirected his compass, focusing on the personal and professional chapters of his life. In 1946 he married the love of his life, Edna (Kulesza). Over the years they were blessed in many regards with both friends and family. Living a humble life, he engaged in many civic and professional activities in his community.

Paicos received additional professional training at Temple University, and began his professional career as a Podiatrist, his first practice was established in Boston, followed by the opening of an evening office in his home. Times were very different then with professional services often rewarded “in kind”. Sometimes “Painless Pete”, as he was known, would come home with a bag of vegetables or perhaps a plate of homemade baklava as payment for services. He loved his patients for who they were and what they represented. Well respected by his peers he was involved in local organizations and volunteered at many clinics and facilities for those of little means. In August of 2006 Dr. Paicos was recognized by the Massachusetts Podiatric Medical Society for providing sixty years of medical care to his patients. He officially retired from practice at the young age of ninety.

Pete and Edna began their family in 1956 with the arrival of Deborah, followed by Peter Jr, in 1959. Pete loved spending time with his children, including a memorable six week cross country trip while the children were seven and four respectively. There were many trips to the beaches of Maine. This tradition continues with his grandchildren.

His fortunes continued with the blessing of five beautiful grandchildren: Bobby, Heather and Jillian Deliago, Fay and Eve Paicos. He cherished his grandchildren and loved spending time with them. He was also a loving uncle with many nieces and nephews: Kevin, Christopher and Alex Paicos, Sue and Ray Gregorie.

Pete was known as a fun loving joker; there was always a smile on his face. He was a true gentle man with a warm and generous heart, always willing to extend a hand to those in need - he was known to stop by the side of the road for someone in distress or offer a ride to one in need. His patients truly appreciated his genuine concern and caring approach; he was not one to say no when the phone rang for a house call to a shut in or to someone having a difficult time.

In his later years in life, his compass redirected once more, as he then became the patient. Recognized for his contribution as a war veteran, his care was graciously provided by the Veterans Administration. The last two
years of his life were spent at the Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital in Bedford Ma. To say his care was compassionate and respectful would be an understatement. He was reunited with his military family and was loved and cared for in a manner which is more than exemplary.

On May 29, 2019, days shy of his 100th birthday, his long and full life came to a close, with loving family by his side. This gentle soul will be missed. The community he touched was blessed and honored to have him as a member. His spirit will continue through his loving wife and his children and grandchildren.

Rest In Peace Dr. Peter C. Paicos.

A public funeral mass will be held on June 11, 2019 at 10:00 AM at St. Patrick’s Parish, Stoneham, MA; a private burial will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital: VA Medical Center, Voluntary Services, 200 Spring Road, Bedford MA 01730 or to your favorite Veterans Organization.

For additional information please visit [email protected] , Anderson-Bryant Funeral Home, Four Common Street, Stoneham, MA 02180, 781-438-0316.