Baltimore developer and self-made millionaire John Paterakis died Sunday at age 87.
The Greektown native and Paterson High School graduate died at Johns Hopkins. Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake released a statement Sunday afternoon expressing her sympathies for Paterakis' family.
"Mr. Paterakis believed in Baltimore," Rawlings-Blake said. "From humble beginnings and through hard work and determination, he grew his small family business into one of the largest bakeries in the country. He was a visionary leader focused on growing Baltimore, and his impact can be seen throughout the city."
Paterakis was the founder of H&S Bakery.
Rawlings-Blake went on to say that Paterakis was proud of his Greek heritage, and was committed to his family and faith.
"He will truly be missed," she said. "May his memory be eternal."
The Harbor East developer, along with his family, were honored by the Red Cross in 2012 as Hometown Heroes for their community service.
Sen. Catherine Pugh released a statement calling Paterakis "an accomplished businessman who contributed to the growth of our city."
"He said he was a little baker that got lucky, but he was truly much more," Pugh said.
