Theodore Costas Xenelis, affectionately known as Ted, passed away peacefully at his home on November 6, 2024, at the age of 78. He was born on May 14, 1946, in Middletown, CT to the late Costas N. Xenelis and Jessie (Anuszkiewicz) Xenelis. Ted was a beacon of love and strength who touched the hearts of everyone he met.
Ted spent his childhood working alongside his parents and brothers, Nicholas and Eli, at the family business, Middlesex Fruitery, a staple of Middletown, CT from 1923 until its closing in 2014. He attended Rider University, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, where he met his wife Mary (Kern) Xenelis. After briefly serving in the Army stationed in Korea, Ted, along with Mary, returned to Middletown to start their family and continue working at the family business, eventually taking over management of the store. Many loyal customers at “The Fruitery” would often be greeted by Ted with a friendly hello, an off-key tune, recommendations for the best produce of the day, and a breeze as he whisked by them onto his next task.
The highlight of his year was his annual summer vacation at the New Jersey shore with his family. Ted could be found during the day spending hours in the ocean body surfing and playing in the waves with his children and later grandchildren. After a day at the beach, he spent his evenings cooking dinner and enjoying a scotch on the deck.
As a husband, he was the embodiment of love and support, sharing countless warm memories with his wife of 55 years, Mary (Kern) Xenelis. A devoted father, he leaves his children, Melanie-Bevan Xenelis and her husband Paul, Kristen Lawler and Keith, and Nancy Lefler and her husband Jason. A great source of pride and happiness were his six grandchildren, Theodora and Alexandra Bevan-Xenelis, Ava and Cameron Lawler, and Madeleine and Emilia Lefler. He is survived by his brothers; Nicholas and Eli Xenelis; sisters-in-law, Layne and Joanne; niece, Melissa Porter; and nephews, Dwayne, Devin, David, Justin, and Ryan Xenelis.
He was a member of Christ Church in Middle Haddam, CT, where he found fulfillment in community and faith. Ted’s life was a testament to the values of hard work, kindness, generosity, family and love. His legacy will continue to inspire all who knew and loved him. Services to honor and celebrate Ted’s remarkable life will be held at Christ Church on Saturday, December 7, 2024, with calling hours at 10:00 am followed by the service at 11:00 am (66 Middle Haddam Rd, Middle Haddam, CT).
Ted Xenelis was truly the kindest, sweetest, and most loving man. His memory will forever remain a source of inspiration and comfort to those fortunate enough to have known him.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the following organizations in Ted’s honor:
- Vincent de Paul of Middletown Soup Kitchen: https://svdmiddletown.org/meals/
- Alzheimer’s Association, Dementia Research: https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/research_progress
- Lower Cape Fear Hospice: https://lifecare.org/
To express condolences or to share a memory, please do so below.
Coastal Cremations of Jacksonville is serving the family.
4 Comments
Ted was both a gentleman and a gentle man. But most importantly, he was a family man. He will be deeply missed by the Middlesex County community. Heartfelt condolences to Mary, Melanie, Kristen, Nancy and their families.
Uncle Teddy was a sweet, kind, wonderful man. He was a true hardworking, gentleman who adored his family. I will always remember him wearing an adorable big smile. Sending love & prayers.
For many of us, Teddy and Mary created the defining center of Middletown. His tireless work to provide us with the freshest and the best made the Fruitery a special kind of community space that will long be nostalgic.
I am so sad to hear of the loss of Mr. Xenelis. He was the best! He always made me feel so welcomed in your house, at the fruitery, and on the family vacations!! Sending you all lots of thoughts and love.
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