Suzanne Aretakis

Suzanne Aretakis (nee Arsman), passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on October 26, 2023, at the age of 95. She is survived by her beloved husband of 72 years, John; children Steve (Shelagh), Helene (James) Lionas, Nicholas (Cynthia), Alex (Maria), daughter-in-law Kate; grandchildren Michael (Angelina) Lionas, John (Yuliana) Lionas, Fr. Nicholas (Amanda) Lionas, John (Lauren) Aretakis, Rachel Aretakis, Alexander (Corey) Aretakis, Christopher Aretakis, Ellen Aretakis, Bennett (Leah) Aretakis, Lily Aretakis, Grace Aretakis and James Aretakis; great-grandchildren Demetrios, Nikolas, Lucas, Alexa, Scotty and Eleni; sisters-in-law Anita Arsman and Darlyn Aretakis, and her many loving nieces, nephews, family and friends.
Suzanne was predeceased by her son James, her parents Evangelos and Demetra (Gianniotis) Arsman, and her three siblings, Steve (Anita) Arsman, Artemis (Harry) Cheolas, and Demosthenes (Barbara) Arsman.
Born in Detroit to parents who immigrated from Greece, Suzanne grew up in a tightly knit Greek American community where she met the love of her life, John. They were married when she was 23, and they began their 72-year journey together raising their 5 children.
Suzanne's sweet soul and kind heart are the foundation of her family. Her love was selfless. She was always giving and constantly taking care of those around her. She taught her children how to love and the importance of family. Her presence was always felt, whether through her unwavering support, her wise advice, her sweet laughter, and her incredible cooking and baking. She was a hands-on Yiayia whose lullabies were the sweetest, and who was excited to joyfully be a part of countless events, games, concerts, and dance recitals.
The love Suzanne shared was deeply rooted in her belief in Jesus Christ. She had an unwavering faith and, like her mother before her, she would aptly be described as a prayer warrior, as she was always praying for the well-being of others. She loved the church, attended Bible study regularly, and sang in the St. John church choir for more than four decades.
Suzanne lived life joyfully and gratefully, knowing her blessings came from the Lord. Whether it was the blessings of her family, her life with John, traveling the world with their "Gang," or just the simple joys of each day, she lived her life with humility and grace. She will be greatly missed. May Her Memory be Eternal.
In lieu of flowers memorial donation may be made to St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church or ALS of Michigan