Alex Spanos was a shining example of how the American spirit of hard work and determination can pay off for those willing to follow their dreams.
"I always believed in the pursuit of one's dreams. In buying the Chargers, I've been able to realize a dream," Spanos said upon purchasing the team in 1984.
In 1951, at the age of 27, Spanos decided he could no longer support his growing family on $40 per week working in his father's bakery. As a result, he borrowed $800, purchased a used catering truck and set out on his own by providing catering and support services for the migrant farm workers in California's Central Valley.
From those humble beginnings, Spanos' tireless work ethic built one of the leading real estate and development companies in the industry and ultimately positioned him as patriarch of one of the most accomplished and philanthropic families in the United States.
Spanos' personal commitment to quality and integrity continues to be carried on by his family in the daily operation and management of both the Los Angeles Chargers and A.G. Spanos Companies – one of the nation's largest family-owned builders specializing in the construction of multi-family housing and master planned communities.
Spanos made family part of his formula for business success. The A.G. Spanos organization, including the Chargers, is a family-run operation. In 1994, ten years after purchasing the team in 1984, Alex turned over the day-to-day operations of the Chargers to his oldest son, Dean. Today, joining Dean in steering the direction of the organization are Alex's son and Vice Chairman, Michael Spanos, and grandsons A.G. and John Spanos, Presidents of Business and Football Operations, respectively. Carrying on Alex's legacy, the Chargers entered 2018 celebrating 33 years of the family's ownership.
Spanos' amazing journey and his passion for giving back is outlined in his autobiography, "Sharing the Wealth: My Story," a compelling first-hand account of the events and decisions in his life that became his basic fundamentals for success.
Spanos' community spirit and generosity are renowned. Few matched the benevolence and philanthropy that Alex and his late wife Faye, who were married for more than 69 years, displayed throughout their lives in supporting deserving institutions and community-service efforts. One of his more generous contributions resulted in the opening of the Alex G. Spanos Heart & Vascular Center in Sacramento. Southern Californians have Spanos to thank for the huge economic windfall of two Super Bowls (1998 and 2003) and a Republican National Convention in San Diego. In addition to the millions of dollars donated by Spanos throughout the country, the Chargers Community Foundation, which he established, has delivered more than $13 million to help San Diego and Los Angeles youth by supporting education as well as health and fitness programs.
In 2008, the President of the Republic of Greece, Mr. Karolos Papoulias, awarded Spanos the Medal of the Commander of the Order of Honor. The honor came in recognition of his many contributions to the birthplace of his parents.
These acts of caring demonstrate the commitment of a man whose rags-to-riches story has served as an inspiring example for others. Though his life took him places he never dreamed possible, Spanos continued to reside in his hometown of Stockton, Calif. until his passing on October 9, 2018 at age 95.
Spanos family tree includes four children (Dean, Dea, Alexis, Michael and their spouses), 15 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.
