His friends say he loved his hometown and was a big part of the community, so they made sure his funeral service today was held at one of his favorite places, Taft Union High School. His former student and friend, Les Clark, said no one ever said anything negative to say about Gianopulos. "Everyone in town knew him and everyone is going to miss him but i know he has left us with a legacy," said Clark.
Gianopulos served two terms as mayor and worked at the high school for more than three decades. "He established so many, what i would call lofty goals and pristine efforts that i would say for years to come and kids that he counseled i would say many many many kids, that's another legacy he will leave," said Clark.
Larry Peahl, Gianopulos' friend and co-author of their book, "A History of Early Taft", remembers his fellow historian. "He was just all involved he was friendly but he was helpful but above all he was a gentleman," said Peahl.
A man to be honored and a World War II veteran who fought for his country. In a interview from 2011 Gianopulos spoke to 17 News about the Wall Valor and his time abroad. "I am very proud of my service and I am very happy to their names inscribed on the wall," said Gianopulos.
He now leaves a legacy to be documented, a new added chapter to Taft's history. "He was so fond of this community, because he do so much mold its heritage and its message i think that's why not many communities have someone like that," said Peahl.
Gianopulos is survived by his sister, brother, two daughters, four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.