James Tzakis

James was born on November 6, 1927 in Chicago, to Harlilaos and Anna (Neofitas) Tzakis immigrants from Cephalonia Greece. He grew up in Chicago along with his sister and two brothers. Dear brother of the late Helen (the late Peter) Flessas, the late Sam (Theresa) Tzakis, the late William (Tula) Tzakis.
Fond uncle of Anna (James) Crowley, Peter (Olga) Tzakis, Elaine Tzakis, Annamaria Stornello, Anna Pontikis, and Andrew (Mary) Flessas.
Proud Godfather of Samuel James Tzakis.
Loving great uncle of Theresa (David) Anderson, Michael Crowley, David J Anderson, MaryAnna Anderson, Dean Stornello, Andrew Stornello, Lena Stornello, Nick Pontikis, the late Gus Pontikis, Jordan (Matthew) Piccolo, Emily Flessas and Alexandra Flessas.
James was a happy child who enjoyed "building" using his mother's canned vegetables.
Jim earned two bachelor's degrees from Roosevelt University, in Mathematics and Physics/Engineering. He followed his older brother Sam and joined the Marines, serving in China during the Korean War. A few years after leaving the Marines, he joined the Navy where he trained as a pilot in Pensacola, Florida, earning his Navy Wings.
Jim began his career with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, first working on projects in Canton, IL. He then moved to the James C. Kirie Water Reclamation Plant in Des Plaines, IL where he worked as a Pollution Control Officer. In his role he investigated illegal spills into the waterways in the Chicago area. He took immense pride in his work for the MWRD.
James loved helping friends and family with any home improvement projects, from painting and wallpapering to laying flooring, running electrical wiring and gas piping. He was a true jack of all trades, and master of all.
James was an extraordinarily generous man to friends and family. He loved treating people to special experiences, from meals at restaurants to gifts and shows, to planning vacations for the family. He particularly loved doting on his "camari" Godson, Samuel Tzakis. Their special relationship will leave a lasting legacy in his Godson.
James spent the last two years of his life as a resident of Sunrise Senior Living in Buffalo Grove. His caregivers and friends at Sunrise enjoyed his pleasant disposition and bright smile.
He fought a valiant battle with dementia, but remained pleasant and loving throughout. He will be remembered by all for his courage and kindness. May his memory be eternal.
Visitation from 9:30 to 10:00 AM on Tuesday, November 26, 2024 at Saints Peter and Paul Greek Orthodox Church, 1401 Wagner Road, Glenview, IL. Funeral service immediately following at 10 AM. Interment with Military Honors at Elmwood Cemetery, River Grove, IL.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Greek American Rehabilitation & Care Centre 220 N 1st Avenue, Wheeling, IL 60090.
Arrangements by Memory Eternal Funeral Directors, Ltd. (847) 375-0095.