Jan. 5, 1938—Oct. 28, 2009

George T. Klentos, a longtime restaurateur and church leader, died Wednesday in Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital, Amherst, after battling cancer for six years. He was 71.

Mr. Klentos, of Amherst, owned the Wehrle Restaurant on Wehrle Drive in Cheektowaga for 18 years.

He was born and educated in Greece, moved to the United States in 1962 and seven years later became half owner of the Elmwood Lounge at Elmwood Avenue and West Utica Street in Buffalo. He sold his interest in 1993, two years after buying the Cheektowaga location.

Mr. Klentos was active for 40 years in Hellenic Orthodox Church of the Annunciation, where as cantor he sang with the priest during weddings and funerals. He was named Man of the Year in 2008 for his work with the church and the Greek community.

Survivors include his wife of 40 years, Sylvia Gikas Klentos; two sons, Nickolas and Tim; and a brother, Pete.

A service will be at 10 a. m. Monday in Church of the Assumption, 146 W. Utica St.