FARMINGTON – Mike Grimanis, 84, died unexpectedly on Dec. 6, 2020 at his home in Farmington, with his loving wife by his side.
He was born in Andros, Greece to Antonio and Thearmando Grimanis. As a young man, Mike worked as a carpenter and served in the Greek military service. Later, he joined the Merchant Marines, serving for 15 years.
Eventually settling in the U.S., he worked in several diners, later buying his own in Farmington where he ran the Farmington Diner for 25 plus years. It became his life’s passion. He was well known for his great food, generous portions and witty sense with customers. He loved and appreciated them as much as they loved him. The diner was a tremendous social network long before social media. People and families of all ages and walks of life were treated with equal dignity and respect.
Upon his retirement, he enjoyed working on the apartments; there were very problems he couldn’t solve. His gardening was also a great passion of his. Mike was a member of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Lewiston. He and his beloved friend, Toni Orestis ran the kitchen at the Greek festival each September. Again there he was renowned for his delicious rice.
Mike is survived by his wife and partner, Rose of 36 years; son, Tony and step-children Jon, Jodi and Eric Fitch; grandchildren, Michael and Alex Grimanis; shared grandchildren, Andrew Fitch, Austin Hardy, Mariah and Brianna Fitch, Isabella Fitch, and Charlotte Fitch; and three great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Ortacia of Athens, Greece; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews in Greece and the Boston area.
On Thursday, Dec. 10, 2020, a walk through viewing will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at Dan & Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Service, 488 Farmington Falls Road, Farmington, ME. There will be a private limited Greek service at the Greek Orthodox Church in Lewiston on Friday. Masks are required to be worn. No more than 50 people will be allowed in the facility at one time.
Details of a spring interment will be announced at a late date.
So very sorry for your loss.
So very sorry for your great loss Rose and family. He was quite an honest and wonderful person. He will surely be missed.
Dear Rose and Family, So very sorry to hear about Mike—He was always kind and cooking something…You are always in my thoughts, Rosie. Please stay strong and know that I’m here if you need anything. Love You— Lois and Gary
Yes, the diner was a wonderful gethering place where loggers and lawyers and plumbers and politicians gathered It was the place to be when you were hungry for food and good conversation…Thank you Mike and family for the gift that remains strong in our memories.
Sorry to hear my condolences to his family
Condolences to the family. His diner was one of the best anywhere.
Sending my condolences to the Family. I have lots of great memories of working with Mike at the Diner, some 33 years ago. He was a strict but very witty and fair Businessman.
My sincere sympathy to Tony and all the family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Tony.
My sincerest condolences to Tony and family.
Rose This Tracy Robbins rent of you and Mike just find out or been there for you. It hard to loose someone you love. Sorry for you loss Rosa here if need anything.
Dear Rose and kids, I am saddened to hear this about Mike. An Icon for sure in Farmington. I have many memories of Mike and of course all of you. Love you all dearly. RIP dear Mike.
There was no mention of his nephew Nicholas Grimanis? I understand he worked for Mike at his Diner in Farmington for many years.