Kleanthi Batistatos, beloved wife, mother and yiayia, passed away on Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at the age of 94, surrounded by her loving family in Crown Point, IN. She was born on October 15, 1929 in Kefalonia, Greece.

Kleanthi immigrated to the US in 1968 and supported her family by working outside the home as well as maintaining her homemaking responsibilities. She survived many hardships including famine in the 1930/40s, Axis occupation of Kefalonia in 1944/45, and the massive earthquake that destroyed Kefalonia in 1953. The hardships continued after immigration but love of family gave her the strength to endure it all. Kleanthi was an expert homemaker, crocheter/knitter and cook. Family favorites included pitas, skordalia, soups and her homemade bread.

Kleanthi is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 53 years, Spiro Batistatos; brother, Bobby Thomatos; sister, Evgenia Ladas; son-in-law, Tom Yiatras; and great-grandchild, Tommy Yiatras. She is survived by her 5 children: Nick Batistatos (wife Debra), Pete Batistatos, Evanthia Yiatras, Agapios Batistatos (wife Debbie), and John Batistatos (wife Kerry). Kleanthi is also survived by her 12 grandchildren: Spiro, Andrew, Kleanthi (Nick’s), Kleanthi (Pete’s), Angela, Anastasia (husband Roger Rojo), Antonios (wife Irene), Arianna, Nathan, Alex, Zoe and Amelia; and two great-grandchildren: Evanthia and Paraskevi (Antonios’). Also, Kleanthi is survived by three siblings in Greece – sister, Zoi Antzoulatos and brothers: Victor Thomatos and Stathi Thomatos.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at SS Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 8000 Madison Street, Merrillville, IN 46410 at 9:30am until the time of Funeral Service at 10:00am. Service will be officiated by Rev. Theodore Poteres and Rev. James Greanias. Interment to follow at Calumet Park Cemetery at 2305 W. 73rd Avenue, Merrillville, IN 46410.

Guests are welcome to return to the church after interment and join Kleanthi’s family for a memorial luncheon in her honor.

Visit Kleanthi’s online guestbook at www.GeisenFuneralHome.com 219-663-2500.