Irene Kapsalakis Kontis

East Lansing, MI

Born in Erie, PA, April 29, 1923, died February 28, 2015 after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s.  She was predeceased by her husband, Frank A. Kontis, her parents, Emmanuel and Aspasia Kapsalakis; her sister, Evangeline, and her brothers, George and Constantine.

Irene was an elegant lady who valued her family and her Greek heritage.  She was talented in art and design, creating quilts, flower arrangements, paintings and crafts.  Irene was well traveled and was a tireless worker as a secretary, office manager, insurance adjuster, and restaurant owner.  This classic fashionista and hostess was gracious to and supporting of her friends.

Irene is survived by her daughter, Cassandra Kontis Heos (son-in-law James T. Heos); three grandchildren, Matthew (Marina) Heos, Christopher (Rebecca) Heos, and Kelly (Anthony) Samson; four great-grandchildren, Julia, Elliana, Benjamin and Daniel; along with nieces Irene Steffas and Debbie Kapsalakis, and nephews Dean and Mike Kapsalakis.

Private burial will take place in Erie, Pennsylvania.  A 40 days memorial service will be held on Sunday, March 29, 2015, following the Sunday service, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 1701 E. Saginaw St., Lansing.

A grateful thank you from the family goes out to the doctors and staff at Hospice House of Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Irene may be sent to Crime Stoppers of Mid-Michigan, 3315 S. Pennsylvania Avenue, Lansing, MI 48910, or Hospice House of Mid-Michigan, 1210 West Saginaw, Lansing, MI 48915. Arrangements by Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel.