John Sakellarides, age 84, passed away from Parkinson's disease in the comfort of his home in Bloomingdale, Illinois. John was born and raised in Palaio Faliro, Athens, Greece on October 28, 1932. John was the son and only child of Theofrastos Sakellaridis, an accomplished Greek operetta writer, and Kyriaki Sakellaridis (nee Litsakos), an actress.

After graduating from high school, John attended the National Conservatory in Athens and Santa Cecelia Academy in Rome, Italy and served in the Hellenic Air Force. Before immigrating to the United States in 1964, John worked as a musician, conductor and composer. He was known to have written dozens of scores for ballets, independent films, radio broadcasts and written his own compositions in addition to working as a pianist in several venues.

Soon after arriving in New York City, John re-located to Chicago, Illinois. He was mostly well known by Chicagoans as the pianist at the legendary Como Inn Restaurant where he performed from 1966-1992. John was also known as the pianist at The Country Squire in Grayslake, Illinois.

John was predeceased by his wife of 35 years Barbara Lynn Sakellarides (nee Brownfield). He was the father of Alexis, Theo and the late Maria Sakellarides. In addition to his children, John leaves behind his nephews Rick (Laura), Jonathon (Anna) Bloss, several grand nieces and nephews and his friends.