Rita Gianakis

Rita Gianakis, 84, passed away peacefully on Saturday November 24, 2018. Rita was born June 23 1934, daughter of Demetrius and Polexene Gianakis. She lived many years in Elizabeth and Roselle, and graduated fromAbraham Clark High School in Roselle NJ. She worked as a human resource data analyst at CSX.  She enjoyed her retirement in Linden NJ with her soulmate of 60 years, John Kalomatis.

Rita’s favorite past time was spending time with her eternal love, soulmate, and best friend, John. Hand in hand, they enjoyed vacationing in Aruba, skiing, dancing, traveling, savoring gourmet meals and cooking.  Together they both enjoyed the company of their cats as well as taking care of the neighborhood strays.  Rita enjoyed celebrating holidays and family gatherings with her godson Thomas Dimitry and her cousin Denise Soppas. Her family and friends will remember and admired Rita for her independence, generosity, loving soul, and living her life without regret.  

She was predeceased by her life partner John Kalomatis, and her siblings Pericles, Christopher, and Dorthey. Rita is also survived by several nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews, and cousins. 

Visitation is from 4 to 8 on Tuesday November 27th with a memorial service at 7:00 at Higgins and Bonner Echo Lake Funeral Home, 582 Springfield Ave., Westfield, NJ. The funeral is on Wednesday November 28th at 11 am at the Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 721 Rahway Ave, Union, NJ. Interment is in Fairview Cemetery in Westfield.

In lieu of flowers, keep Rita’s memory alive in your heart by making a donation to your favorite animal rescue.

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