Eugene (Gene) Volas

Eugene (Gene) Volas, age 92, of North Canton, OH, passed away peacefully at home on January 31, 2026. He was born in McKeesport, PA to the late Peter J. and Katina Cantemiry Volas. His family briefly relocated to Kremasti, Rhodes, Greece in 1935 before growing up on Walnut Street in McKeesport. His hometown was a melting pot in a post-World War economy where his faith, values, and work ethic took shape. He graduated from McKeesport High School in 1951. Although college “was not for him”, his career aspirations led him to follow in his father’s footsteps as a barber.

Eugene proudly served in the United States Air Force from July 5,1951 to July 4, 1954. He received an honorable discharge with the final rank of Airman (E-2). He was stationed at Lowry Air Force Base in Colorado and Lockbourne Air Force Base in Ohio. He received the National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal. He was still able to recite his service number until his final day.

After his military service, Eugene attended beauty school in Pittsburgh, PA with advanced training in Los Angeles, CA. Returning home, Eugene was promoted as the “Hairdresser to the Hollywood Stars” by his mentor John Lesko. He would embark on an award-winning career that spanned seven decades as a barber, beautician and entrepreneur. Gene’s Beauty World, The Genie Room, Gene’s Hallmark Shop, McKeesport Institute of Hair Design, and Gene Volas Hair Design were his primary businesses in McKeesport and White Oak, PA.

Eugene met his wife Katherine Zafaras of Turtle Creek, PA at the Greek Independence Day celebration at the Penn-McKee Hotel in March 1965. According to him, she was the prettiest girl on the dance floor. The couple got married on July 18, 1965. It was ironic that both were hairdressers and would spend the next 50 years working side by side. This allowed them to develop many wonderful relationships with their customers. The couple raised their family in Elizabeth Township, PA until retiring to Ohio to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Family get togethers always included a haircut from “Uncle Gene the Haircutting Machine”.

Eugene was a lifelong member of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in McKeesport, PA.  He faithfully served in all roles from altar boy to parish council president. Eugene founded and led a fundraising campaign known as the “Eternal Light”, which lit candles every Sunday in remembrance of past parishioners and their family members. He was the first recipient of the St. Photios Service Award by His Eminence Metropolitan Savas of Pittsburgh.  

Although Eugene would never consider himself an athlete, fitness was a major part of his life. Each day after work he would hit the swimming pool or gym at the McKeesport YMCA, Youghiogheny Country Club, Racquet Club of Monroeville, and most recently North Canton YMCA. Eugene was able to still do a few laps in the pool right up to his passing. He attributed his longevity to a healthy lifestyle, which was enhanced by a glass of red wine at dinner each night.

Eugene was preceded in death by his parents, brother John Volas, sister-in-law Mary Volas and sister Barbara Volas. In addition to his wife Katherine, he is survived by his children Peter (Joanna) Volas of North Canton, OH, Dr. Gena Volas of Atlanta, GA, and Evan (Roula) Volas of Canton, OH. He was the proud and loving Papou to his grandchildren Eleni, Yanni and Kosta Volas, Nicholas, Douglas “Andreas”, and Alexander Redd, Zachary Volas, and step-grandchildren Liese and Dr. Sarah Redd (Ian). He is also survived by sisters-in-laws Elizabeth Voutsaras, Joanne Doukakis, Evelyn Pappas and several beloved nieces, nephews, and their families.

The family would like to thank the caregivers at Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital, Dr. Ahmad Ibrahim, and first responders with the City of North Canton.

Family and friends are invited to St. Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church, 251 25th Street, NE, Canton, OH on Saturday, February 7, 2026, for visitation at 10:00 AM with funeral service at 11:00 AM. Rev. Dr. Nicholas V. Gamvas will officiate the service with interment at North Lawn Cemetery in North Canton, OH.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church Endowment Fund.

He will be deeply missed. May his memory be eternal.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.