Chris Makris

Chris Makris June 27, 1937 - Feb. 23, 2015 SOUTH BEND - Chris Makris, 77, of South Bend, died peacefully on Monday, February 23rd, in his residence. Chris was born June 27, 1937, in South Bend, to the late Dorothy (Anagnosto-poulos) and Peter C. Makris. He was also preceded in death by a sister, Elaine Daniels. He is survived by two daughters, Becky Makris and husband, Frank Richardson of Unionville, IN, and Paula Makris-Larance and husband, Jeremy of Wheeling, WV; five grandchildren; two sisters, Bess Stamatakos of East Lansing, MI, and Effie Walsh of Bethesda, MD; and his brother, John P. Makris of Athens, Greece. Chris was a graduate of Central High School in South Bend, Indiana, and the Indiana University School of Business at Bloomington. He was a passionate fan of IU basketball. His first job took him to southern California, where he developed a love of sailing. After returning to South Bend and taking a job at Clark Equipment Company, he continued to sail for many years on Lake Michigan with his Pearson sailboat, Vantage. He traveled frequently for his job, visiting all of the states in the continental U.S., as well as several provinces in Canada. He also enjoyed travel in his personal life, particularly in Europe. As a son of Greek immigrants, Chris was proud of his Greek heritage and frequently went back to Greece to see family and friends. After retiring from the job he had held at Clark for more than twenty years, he became an avid gardener, as well as a talented photographer who preserved the beautiful blooms in his garden in digital form. The photographs that he created are a testament to his artistic nature and a cherished legacy for his family. He was a much beloved father and grandfather who enjoyed spending time with his 5 grandchildren. Private family services will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions in Chris' name may be made to The Center for Hospice Care, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, IN 46545. Welsheimer Family Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Family and friends may leave e-mail condolences at www.welsheimer.com.