The Galesburg community is remembering a longtime restaurateur described as “an amazing person” with a constant smile, a “great boss” who made work fun, and a man with deep devotion to his faith and to his family.
Sarkis “Sharky” Younes, manager at La Gondola Spahgetti House for nearly 40 years, died unexpectedily on Aug. 6, 2025. He was 59.
His sudden passing has sparked an outpouring of sympathy and memories on the La Gondola Facebook page, where community members shared heartfelt tributes.
Some of the comments included:
“40 years of great Food!!! My condolences to the family and everyone that knew him.”
“Sharkey was an amazing man. Always had a smile on his face and genuinely cared for about everyone. Will be missed by all.”
“RIP Sharkey. You were the best boss I ever had.”
“I was so sad to hear this! Sharky was my first boss. He was a great guy, and made working there so fun! I still tell stories from my LaGondola days!”
“Hugs & prayers as you deal with this sudden loss of a great man with awesome character. He will be truly missed by many. If you knew Sharkey, you enjoyed his company.”
“My very first boss and my all time favorite place to work. Thank you for always treating me like one of the family!!”
“Costa Catholic Academy sends its love and support to the Younes family during this most difficult time. Sarkis will be remembered for his deep devotion to his faith and to his family. He was a blessing to the student athletes he coached at Costa. Please remember the Younes family in your prayers.”
Obituary: Sarkis Younes ~ May 22, 1966 – August 6, 2025
Younes was born on May 22, 1966, in Aitou, Lebanon, to Michel and Jamileh (Sous) Younes, immigrating to the U.S. in August 1972. He married Ivete Alwan on Sept. 7, 1996, in Peoria. Survived by his wife, children Michael, Anthony, and Mariana, and sisters Claudette Roden, Youmna Cook, and Antoinette Bohanan, he was preceded by his parents.
A man of strong faith and community spirit, according to his obituary, Younes coached basketball at his children’s school, and cheered for the St. Louis Cardinals and Boston Celtics.
Younes’ funeral mass was held today, Monday, Aug. 11 at St. Sharbel Church in Peoria.
La Gondola is closed today in memory of Younes.
