Marie Torakis

Marie Torakis passed away peacefully on September 14, 2023 with her children at her side.Marie was born in Cleveland, Ohio on May 4, 1931. She was the third child of Spiro and Efstathia Chavel.
The family soon moved to Detroit where she was raised on the east side. Marie attended Foch Junior High and graduated from Eastern High School in 1949. While in high school, Marie participated in the drama program and had a leading role in her senior play. An accomplishment that she was always proud of and spoke of throughout her life.
Throughout her teen and young adult years. Marie was active at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church and a member of GOYA and her church choir.
Following high school graduation, Marie attended Wayne State University, with aspirations of becoming a nurse. That all changed when her brother was drafted into the army for the Korean War. As a result, she gave up her dream of being a nurse to help her father in the family business, Michigan Wholesale Candy and Tobacco Company. While managing the business she helped facilitate to process of it to becoming a direct distributor thereby allowing their business to grow and thrive.
Marie married the love of her life. George Torakis on January 8, 1956. They had three children. She stayed home to raise her children but always kept her hand in the family business. She also played an active role in her children's school PTA, the North Rosedale Park Community and St. Nicholas Church Philoptohos. Marie was also a member of Junior Group Goodwill Industries.
Marie and George's third child, John, was born with developmental disabilities. She researched and worked tirelessly to find solutions for John and to help him reach his maximum potential and abilities. She was particularly grateful and humbled for the outpouring of support of many volunteer neighbors and friends from Rosedale Park Community who helped her with John's twice daily exercise schedule.
After raising her family, Marie started out on a new business endeavor. She opened Michael's, a sundry/convenience store in downtown Detroit. After her husband's retirement from Michigan Wholesale, they continued on working together ultimately growing their business to five stores.
Marie and George enjoyed spending time at their cottage in Amherstburg, Ontario. They loved to travel to the Caribbean, eventually buying a time share in their beloved Aruba. They were fortunate to have taken several trips to Europe. Marie's last trip to Europe was in 2008 to Greece with Michael and his family.
Marie remained active at Assumption Church as a member of the Senior Citizens Club and of Daughters of Penelope, Thamyris Chapter. She worked several years on the Festival of Tables which benefits the Liggett Breast Cancer Center at the Van Elslander Cancer Center.
Marie lived for four years at the American House in Grosse Pointe Farms, in independent living. She met many new friends there and enjoyed the many activities provided.
Her last public activity In March of 2022 was a joyous family event. She was able to be at the baptism of her beloved great grandchild Galina.
During her later years, Marie had difficulty with mobility, but she never let that stop her. She remained active until her final illness. Marie passed that strength and tenacity on to her children and grandchildren.
Marie is predeceased by her husband George, and son John, her brother Sam and sister Joan.
She is survived by her children; Michael (Linda) Torakis, Chrisanne Palmer (Kimon) ;grandchildren Marina, Alex (Nicole), and Alexandra; great-granddaughter Galina Marina as well as her sister-in-law Dena Chavel and many nieces, nephews, and godchildren.
An instate for Marie will take place on Thursday, September 21, 2023 at 9:30am at Assumption Greek Orthodox located at 21800 Marter Rd, St Clair Shores, MI 48080 with a funeral service to follow at 11:00am.
In lieu of flowers. The family asks for donations to Angies's Residential care who provided loving care to Marie in her final year. Donations can be mailed to 30645 Lebanon Dr. Warren, MI 48093