Gregory V. Sarantis

October 15, 1920 - May 6, 2009

Gregory Sarantis, age 88 passed away Wednesday May 6, 2009 at his residence surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Kastoria, Greece where he fought in the army for his native land. In 1954, he came to the United States for a better life and later married. Shortly thereafter, he started his family and devoted himself to his family. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 46 1/2 years Pauline; his loving daughters: May William Logothetis; Christine Louis Batides; two grandsons: Gregory Logothetis and James Batides; a brother-in-law and nieces in Kastoria, Greece; and a first cousin in Melbourne, Australia. His father, Vasili and mother, Thomai preceded him in death. He retired from U.S. Steel as a mason for 31 years. He was an avid gardener who could make anything grow as well as a jack-of-all-trades. There was nothing he couldn't figure out or fix. But most of all he was an even more awesome and amazing husband, father, Papou, and friend. The stories he shared about the old country and his struggles will never be forgotten, but rather, his wisdom has been passed on to many. He was a member of the Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Merrillville. Friends may visit 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday at the Geisen Funeral Home, 7905 Broadway Merrillville, Indiana with a Trisagion service at 5:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 9 at 9:30 a.m. directly at the Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 8000 Madison St., Merrillville, Indiana, Rev. Theodore Poteres officiating. Burial to follow at Calumet Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SS. Constantine & Helen Helping Hand fund for the needy. To share a memory or send a condolence to the family, please visit the guest book section at www.geisenfuneralhome.com. For information call 219-769-3322.

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Chrissy and family - I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Having lost my own father just 6 months ago, I know what you are going through and my heart goes out to you. I pray God's blessings upon you during this difficult time.

Dear May,Christine, Bill,and Louis, Due to prior commitments, please accept my condolences on the loss of your father and father in-in-law. I, too, experienced the death of my father, so I know how one must feel. Remember the fun times, the times your father helped you learn about life, and how he supported your education. Forgive him for any cross words as you grew up. Love him in your hearts forever. Although you will miss him, be happy he is out of pain at last. He fought the good fight. With heartfelt sympathy,

Chrissy, I am saddened to hear about your dad . . . my heart goes out to you and your family.

We know it has been difficult, and it is hard to understand. We hope you know Gregory is healthy, at peace, and in a MUCH better place now. Our thoughts and prayers are with you! God bless!

Dear May and family, So sorry to hear of your dads passing. Just know that he is at peace and in a better place. Deepest sympathy, Larry and Katie Tetzloff

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

How do I condense the over 40 years of knowing your Dad? I am so thankful for that opportunity. It is through his love and wisdom that has helped mold me into the person I am. I am forever grateful. Do you remember the first time we met? Goodness, we were only 5 years old. I was so hesitant and freighted to approach your house. The first person I saw was your Dad. Even at that young age I could tell your Dad was of the strong European stature. I was taught the expected respectfulness and politeness that Europeans share. I kept rehearsing in my mind that I could do this I could do this. You cannot imagine the vehement I was feeling for the mail carrier that put me into this situation. I had to redeliver miss-delivered mail! What was that mail carrier thinking? We didn't share the same last name or the same street, but we did share the same house number and that was how it all started. Your Dad was the first person I saw, he greeted me and smiled. I told him why I was there, I handed him the mail and then he called your name. He was speaking in a language that was so different then any other I had ever heard. You came out right away. He had a quick conversation with you. You then asked me if I could stay and the rest is history. I remember going home and telling my parents of my experience. If it weren't for the warmth I felt at that moment, I would never have had the chance to know such a wonderful person and his family. I can remember my Mother, asking me about having to go to your house. Because my Mom spoke very little English at the time, felt bad that I needed to be the messenger. She asked me if everything was all right. I was so excited to tell her that I was glad I went. She was happy we bonded so easily and became friends sisters!. It was because of your Dad that all of this transpired. Thanks so much Mr. Sarantis I'll miss you tremendously!

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.