Andreas Sassaris

Andreas Sassaris, age 80, beloved husband of Vassiliki; loving father of Loula (Matthew) Merkel, John (Anastasia) Sassaris, and Maria Sassaris; devoted grandfather of Andreas and Alexander Merkel, and Sophia, Andreas and Athena Sassaris. Originally from the village of Petalidi in Greece, he was one of several children, born in the "katohi". He was adopted and relocated to Athens in hopes of a better life. Sadly, that was not to be, as the World War II occupation and the hunger that followed impacted even his new home. He became the man of the house, at a young age, and went off into the world to make his way. He served in the Greek Air Force, and upon fulfilling his commitment, began his career in Athens. It was there he met the love of his life, Vassiliki. He immigrated to Chicago in late 1970, and married in 1972. He came to this country without knowing the language, with limited means and no formal training. He found a job busing tables, and discovered a passion for cooking and rose quickly to the level of Executive Chef. In the early 90's he started his own business and became a restauranteur offering Greek fare and free advice to the patrons of Express Carry Out II at the corner of Foster and Sheridan. It was here where his kindness and warm heart shone most bright. Shortly after his arrival in Chicago, he joined the community of St. George Greek Orthodox Church, where he served for many years as a Board Member and an active volunteer -- primarily in the kitchen! He passed peacefully at home on October 31, 2016, in the loving care of his family. Visitation Wednesday from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Smith Corcoran Funeral Home 6150 N. Cicero Ave. Chicago. Family and friends will meet Thursday morning at St. George Greek Orthodox Church 2701 N. Sheffield, Chicago, IL 60614 for funeral service at 11:30 a.m. Interment Elmwood Cemetery. In lieu flowers, the family has requested that memorial donations be made to St. George Church. Arrangements by ADINAMIS & CORLISS Funeral Directors, Ltd. 773-736-3833