Augustus "Gus" Adamopoulos was tragically taken from this life on Tuesday, August 17th. Gus was a vibrant and loving 10-year old who packed a lot of living into his decade with us on this earth. He leaves behind his parents Jim Adamopoulos and Helen Stefanyszyn and his loving sister Ava. He also is survived by his grandparents, John and Vera Stefanyszyn , his uncle, Peter Stefanyszyn and his wife Beverly Dwight, aunts: Olga Demoracski, Victoria Adamopoulos and Christina Sikorski, an uncle Drew Sikorski and numerous cousins: Julie Demoracski, David Demoracski, Luke and Wendy Demoracski, Lara and Dani Sayegh, and Jessie and Daria Sikorski. A splendid athlete, Gus excelled in all sports, but was particularly passionate about basketball and golf. He was a member of numerous Town of Ludlow basketball and baseball teams, and represented the Ludlow Elks, winning the Western Mass regional as part of the national free throw competition. Gus played with heart, grit and with a selflessness that was both admirable and memorable. He loved playing golf with his dad, his uncle Peter and with his friends, Randy Guillen and Travis Reed. He was a past champion in the under 10- division of the Republican Junior Golf tournament and finished in 4th place this year in the 10-12 division. He came in first in a past under 18 division of the Republican's annual Hole in One competition. On the morning of his passing, Gus finished first in the 10-12 division of the junior tournament held at the Ledges golf course. Gus loved nature and was an avid fisherman and camper. He had a natural curiosity about and a sense of wonder and appreciation for all types of wildlife. Gus was a graduate of the St. John's pre-school and the integrated pre-school program through the Ludlow Public Schools. Over the past five years at Veterans Park Elementary School, Gus was a hard-working student and he formed many meaningful friendships and relationships with numerous students and staff. Even at his young age, Gus was an easy going leader and made quick friendships with all whom he came in contact. Through his participation with sports teams, in his school and in his neighborhood, Gus felt a strong bond to the Ludlow community. He will be missed and long remembered by that community and the many others who had the good fortune to meet this special young boy. Funeral services for Gus will be held on Monday, August 23, 2010. Friends and family are asked to gather at St. Elizabeth's Parish, 181 Hubbard Street Ludlow, for a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 10:00am with burial to be held privately by the family. Visiting hours will be held on Sunday afternoon from 2-5 P.M. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gus's memory to: The Gus Adamopoulos Memorial Fund c/o Chicopee Savings Bank 477A Center Street Ludlow, Ma. 01056 to benefit a worthy candidate for the Western Mass Basketball Camp. Online at www.ludlowfuneralhome.com.

Published in The Republican on August 21, 2010