Michael Richard “Deppy” Despotakis passed away peacefully, on October 11, 2025, in Bethel Park, PA. Born in McKeesport, PA on March 26, 1936. Beloved son of the late Michael and Betty (Kurey) Despotakis. Loving Husband of the late Carolyn Despotakis, married on July 23, 1966. Father of Mark Despotakis of White Oak, PA, and grand cat Fleury.
Richard was a 1959 graduate of Penn State University where he graduated with a degree in business. He was in the Army Reserves, worked in various sales jobs until he opened, along with his wife, The Lionheart Inn in McKeesport, PA. The restaurant was a staple of the McKeesport area from when they opened in 1969 until they sold the business in 2000.
He loved to golf and had many golfing buddies through the years that would golf locally and travel around the east coast for golfing trips. He also loved Steelers and Penn State football – no matter how much they frustrated him. He was the uncle to many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife Carolyn, parents Betty and Mike Despotakis; aunt, uncles, sister in law, brothers in law and nephews.
The family wishes to thank the staff for their care this past year at Jefferson Hospital, Celebration Villa of South Hills, and Paramount Bethel Park.
Arrangements
A private burial will be held at Good Shepherd Cemetery, Monroeville.
James F. Kutch Funeral Homes & Crematory
433 Lincoln Highway
East McKeesport, PA 15035
(412) 823-4054
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6 Condolences
One of the nicest men that made our family and all his friends feel special he had a great memory and could accurately recall past events and sports data from past years he was a gentleman and always made you feel comfortable and easy to talk to He will be missed by our family and everyone that knew him
Dear Mark – My heart is so sad for your loss. I can only imagine how much you will miss both your dad and mom . I pray that you will find comfort and peace even in the midst of your grief .
Dep was one of the the nicest guys I’ve known. His personality could light up the room. He will be missed but never forgotten. My deepest condolences.
The Vasko family sends condolences. My whole family worked for your mom and dad at some point and we loved your mom and dad because they where truly special people. It was a pleasure to work for them. We have so many stories and special times together. Good people with great hearts.
Handsome Uncle Deppy with his Dodge Dart and his German Shepard, Dart and his hip plaid 60’s pants and sweater. I remember his tickle tortures when they lived in a trailor. How he won Aunt Carrie’s heart and the rest of us! .
I have many fond memories of Rich, especially at the Lionheart in. He was always pretty quiet, but I remember his laugh. I knew that he golfed a lot that it was something he really liked. He was such a nice person and I will miss him a lot. He had so many friends. He will be missed.
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