Greek builder Louis J. Vastardis of Newtown Square,  whose Lansdowne company built more than 100 restaurants and diners in the Philadelphia area and New Jersey, died Jan. 12. He was 97, writes Bonnie L. Cook for The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Mr. Vastardis was a Greek immigrant born on the island of Andros.

He learned carpentry and furniture making to support his household after his mother died when he was 13.

He escaped Nazi-occupied Greece and eventually came to America in 1947 where he painted farmhouses and office buildings.

. In 1962, he and his wife formed Vastardis Construction in Lansdowne.

The company built Ponzio’s in Cherry Hill, the former Olga’s Diner in Marlton, and Fisher’s Tudor House in Bensalem.

Mr. Vastardis  gained a reputation for quality craftsmanship and integrity.

“He was a craftsman. He just didn’t do the job, he did the job right. Cut corners? That would never happen.” said former owner Chris Fifis.

He retired in 1992 and the firm later closed.

When his wife died, Mr. Vastardis donated money in her name, including restoration work and the installation of new church bells at St. Luke Greek Orthodox Church in Broomall, where they worshipped.

Read more about Mr. Vastardis’ life here.

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