Anna M. Chapekis Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Anna Malafouris Chapekis Saline, Michigan Age 73, passed away September 28, 2012. Born in 1939 to Greek immigrant parents in Detroit, MI, Anna worked her way through the University of Michigan, earning a BA in English and many years later a MA in English Education from EMU. She married Nicholas G. Chapekis in 1960 and taught school until son Nicholas G. Chapekis, Jr. (Theresa) was born, followed by daughter Katherine Chapekis Sietsema (Rev. Brian Mark). She combined her love of opera and support of students by founding The U of M Friends of Opera in 1974 and served continuously as the group’s General Director. Anna was President of numerous civic and educational organizations including AAUW and Church Women United, while also participating in the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Choir and Philoptochos. Anna returned to the workforce when her children were older, as an editor and later as an English and Journalism teacher at Pioneer High School. Anna was a natural mentor to the many people drawn to her, generously offering support, lending confidence, and dispensing good advice. Beloved wife of Nicholas for 52 years, loving mother of Nicholas Jr. and Katherine, and stellar Yiayia of Athena Chapekis, Matthew Sietsema, and Alexander Sietsema. Predeceased by granddaughter Vasiliki "Bessie" Sietsema. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 3, 2012, at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 3109 Scio Rd., Ann Arbor, with Rev. Fr. Mark Sietsema and Rev. Fr. Nicolaos H. Kotsis officiating. Interment will follow in Bethlehem Cemetery. The family will receive friends at Robison-Bahnmiller Funeral Home, Saline, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, where the Trisagion will be held at 7:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church (Iconography) or to U of M Friends of Opera (Anna M. Chapekis Scholarship). Arrangements by the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel.

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Anna M. Chapekis

September 28, 2012