House Joint Resolution 705 honors the memory of Costas "Gus" Brinias, a dedicated public servant and restaurateur from Knoxville, who recently passed away. Born in Greece in 1931, Gus immigrated to Canada in the 1950s, where he worked on a farm before transitioning to the restaurant industry. He and his brother opened their first restaurant in Montreal, and after marrying Voula in 1966, they moved to Knoxville in the 1970s to pursue the American Dream. Gus became a well-known figure in the local dining scene, owning and operating Gus's Restaurant and The Original Louis Drive-In Restaurant until his retirement in 2005.
Gus was not only passionate about his work but also devoted to his family, enjoying time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He was an active member of the Saint George Greek Orthodox Church and contributed to the community through volunteering at the Greek Fest. The resolution reflects on his integrity, compassion, and dedication, and extends condolences to his family, including his wife of fifty-nine years, children, grandchildren, and other relatives. The resolution serves as a tribute to Gus Brinias's remarkable life and legacy.