Athena Marie Dines

Tina DinesJune 21, 1930 – January 1, 2021

From Macedonia to Michigan, then retiring to Florida, our beautiful, lovable, amazing Mother is now rejoicing with her Savior and Lord, her loving husband, Steve, and son, Garry (1953-2020).

To cherish her memory are her two daughters, Kalina and Charissa; son-in-law Stephen; six grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.   She held the title of the fun aunt, cousin, godmother, and dear friend to many others as well.  Having survived years at a NYC orphanage, her children and grandchildren were rarely out of her tender arms.  Her resilience never wavered.  She taught us to always help others and to never give up.  She dazzled the floor at Dines Restaurant, Machus Red Fox, Sheraton Gift Shop, St. Lawrence Volunteer Gift Shop, and even her son’s cafe, always greeting with that 1000-watt smile.   From Opera to Motown to Macedonian dancing music, she filled the family home with singing, dancing, laughter, and so much love.  Further proof of this larger-than-life heart is the fact that 50 years later her children’s friends would still ask about “Mom and Dad Dines.” One of the initial members of St. Andrew Orthodox Church, her strong faith helped her fill the sanctuary with her beautiful voice and the parish hall with her hard work at festivals and beyond.  It is noted that Mom’s feisty opinions never left anyone to wonder what was on her mind.  Forever grateful for the blessing of her long life with us, words cannot express our sadness.  Spunky, strong, and full of spirit to the end, her sweet love and fabulous laugh will forever remain in our hearts until we see her again in the true paradise. Memory Eternal.  We thank you, Mommy.   Love you more!

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 15, 2021, at St. Andrew Orthodox Catholic Church, 1216 Greencrest, East Lansing.  interment will follow at 1:00 p.m. in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.  Memorial contributions may be made to Meals of Hope, 2221 Corporation Blvd., Naples, Florida, 34109 in memory of Athena Dines.

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14 Messages to “Athena Marie Dines

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Eleanor Valkanoff Spalding
January 4, 2021 at 10:52 am

My deepest condolences. I will remember her laugh.

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Robert Millis
January 10, 2021 at 9:01 am

She was a lot fun to be around

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Missy Kemp
January 10, 2021 at 11:58 am

I will always remember your beautiful Mom and funny Dad! A wonderful Family we were lucky to “grow up” next to. Thinking of you all.

Melissa Kemp and Family

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Shelley Miller-O'Neill
January 10, 2021 at 12:56 pm

I am so sorry for your loss. I would live to be able to give you a huge hug & remind you that her love lives on in & through you all.

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Emiline Reifsnyder
January 11, 2021 at 1:52 pm

Chrissa: Friends with Tina since days at Eastern High School.

And also know lovely Charissa. Hoping to see
you Friday.

Emiline Haddad Reifsnyder

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Greg Ellis
January 11, 2021 at 11:32 pm

Charissa and Kalina,

I am so sorry for your loss. I remember many times how loving your mom was to all of us kids that would visit you.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Greg Ellis

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Elaine Pogoncheff
January 12, 2021 at 5:36 pm

Kalina & Charissa —

My deepest sympathies to you and the family. I remember many celebrations as well as every-day gatherings with your mom and dad. She was just as you described – feisty, big heart, big smile! A fun lady! Will keep you all in my prayers.

Love, Elaine

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Charissa
January 25, 2021 at 9:19 am

Oh, how we love our Pogoncheff girls. All three of you
either emailed or sent a card. Thank you so much for
taking the time — it means so much. Hope you are well
in this craziness. She is laughing with your mom too!

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Melissa Zimmerman
January 26, 2021 at 8:39 am

Elaine, Don’t know if you remember me, Melissa Zimmerman, from your LCC class. We compared socks in class!
I had no idea then you knew “Momma” Dines. Her daughter Kalina & I have been best buddies since high school.
Losing Momma has left a huge hole in my heart. The last video chat we shared, she still laughed & sang to me, like so many times over the years! I hope you & your family are safe & doing well!

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Rob & Gina Stanley
January 13, 2021 at 12:58 pm

Kalina, Charissa & families,

We are so saddened by Teta Tina’s passing. She will be remembered for the love she showered on everyone. Her “Hello, Sweetheart!” greeting and warm embrace meant so much. Take comfort in your memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

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Sean Shocaroff
January 14, 2021 at 9:23 pm

Rest in peace wonderful Teta, love to all my Dines family. Memory Eternal

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Kathy Choka
January 18, 2021 at 8:36 pm

Remembering all of the laughter and fun Steve and Tina brought with them from Lansing to Fort Wayne. I’m so glad that I got to share, with my parents Russ and Helen Choka and Uncle Bill and Norma Eshcoff, the warmth and friendship of your wonderful parents. You were truly blessed; may God bring comfort to you all.

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Charissa
January 25, 2021 at 9:21 am

Kathy
Thank you so much for taking the time and for your kind
comments. Agreed — truly blessed. Fun times in Ft. Wayne
and at all the conventions, golfing, etc. Stay well! Peace.
Charissa

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Melissa Zimmerman
January 26, 2021 at 8:49 am

So sad to know “Momma” has passed. Having her in my life for almost 50 years leaves a very big void. Kalina & I became fast friends in high school & have remained friends to this day. Momma’s laughter, her singing, her spaghetti (Kalina will get this), her way of lightening a load or helping you thru it… I will miss her more than I can put into words. I’m so grateful, in our last video chat, Momma laughed & sang to me. I’m forever grateful for this memory.
My sincere sympathy to the family she has left here until they can be together again. Take comfort in knowing she’s with her men & keeping them in line.
Much love to you all!

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