Co-Founder and First President of the Hellenic Cultural Center of the Southwest
It is with deep respect and heartfelt sorrow that the Hellenic Cultural Center of the Southwest honors the life and legacy of Dr. Nicholas Checkles, co-founder and first President of our organization, who passed away on March 27, 2026.
Dr. Checkles was a founding pillar of HCC-SW and a man whose life reflected service, intellectual achievement, and an unwavering commitment to Hellenism. His vision helped establish an institution dedicated to preserving and promoting Greek culture, language, and philosophy—an institution that continues to grow and serve the community today because of the foundation he helped build.
Born on February 12, 1930, in Delphos, Ohio, to parents of Cretan origin, Dr. Checkles carried his Greek heritage with pride throughout his life. His early years were marked by hardship, including the tragic loss of his father at a young age. His mother, displaying remarkable strength, raised the family with resilience and determination—values that would shape his character and future path.
He excelled from an early age, emerging as both a student leader and athlete, serving as class president and captain of his high school football team. His academic journey was extensive and distinguished, including studies at Case Western Reserve University, the University of Toledo, the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, and The Ohio State University College of Medicine.
Dr. Checkles completed his medical training in Chicago while serving as an officer in the United States Navy Medical Corps, reflecting his dual commitment to medicine and service. He specialized in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, building a respected career that included academic teaching at The Ohio State University.
In 1977, he relocated with his family to Houston, Texas, where he continued his medical practice with the same dedication and professionalism that defined his life.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Checkles was deeply devoted to his family. He shared 66 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Aretta “Terri” Mancy, whom he met at a Greek community dance—beginning a lifelong partnership grounded in love, respect, and shared values.
He is survived by his children Elaine Leatherwood, Steve Checkles, and Paul Checkles, as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren, leaving behind a strong and enduring family legacy.
Dr. Checkles’ contribution to the Greek-American community was profound. He was actively involved in organizations such as AHEPA, supporting education and scholarships, and even in his early years contributed to the founding of the publication The Hellenic Echo.
Later in life, he fulfilled a defining vision by founding the Hellenic Cultural Center of the Southwest, creating a lasting institution dedicated to the promotion of Hellenic heritage across arts, science, and philosophy. His leadership helped shape a center that continues to foster cultural continuity and intellectual engagement.
One of his most symbolic contributions was the establishment of a statue of Hippocrates at the Texas Medical Center, accompanied by the planting of a descendant of the legendary plane tree of Hippocrates—an enduring symbol linking ancient Greek wisdom with modern science.
Those who knew him remember a man of integrity, discipline, and quiet strength. He lived fully and actively, maintaining a love for life, family, and community well into his later years.
Dr. Checkles leaves behind a lasting imprint on HCC-SW, the medical profession, and the broader Greek-American community. His vision continues to guide our mission, and his values remain embedded in everything we strive to achieve.
As we honor his memory, we reaffirm our commitment to the principles he stood for: cultural continuity, education, and service to others.
May his memory be eternal.