Kalliope Dukas (nee Karantzas)

Kalliope Dukas (nee Karantzas), a cherished matriarch of her family, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at the venerable age of 95. Born on November 30, 1929, in Piraeus, Greece, to Zacharias and Maria (nee Paloukis) Karantzas.

Kalliope's journey to the United States in 1959 marked the beginning of a new chapter. She arrived by boat, carrying the rich traditions of her homeland in her heart. Arriving in New York, she met her husband, James, and together they shared a life filled with love and family. They eventually made their home in Hegewisch, where they raised their daughters, in a household filled with warmth and the aroma of Greek cooking.

Her role as a wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother was filled with love and guidance. She leaves behind her children Vivian (Chris) Valaveris and Maria (late George) Doukas. Her grandchildren, Elias (Ada), Demetrios (Maria), Dionysios (Marian), Demetrios (Yvette), and Peter (Caylin), whom she adored and cherished every moment spent with them, teaching her faith, Greek language and culture. She leaves behind eight great-grandchildren, Zoe, Christian, George, Philip, Kalliopi, Natalia, Kosmas, and George.

Kalliope was a caring sister to Maria (late Stellios) Kremmidas, Eleni Bousies, Theodora (late Steve) Zahariadis, and Antonis (Stefania) Karantzas. Her warmth and kindness also extended to her role as a kind aunt to many nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in her heart.

An active and devoted member of the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church, Kalliope's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She exemplified the virtues of her faith through her actions. Kalliope was a remarkable homemaker and wife, an amazing grandmother and great-grandmother, and a steadfast teacher of her cultural heritage. She will be deeply missed yet her spirit will continue to inspire and guide her family and all who knew her.