Anastasia 'Tessie' Kleanthis

ANASTASIA (TESSIE) KLEANTHIS December 22, 1933 – June 23, 2026 Anastasia (Tessie) Kleanthis, age 92, fell asleep in the Lord on June 23, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on December 22, 1933, in the village of Siana, in Rhodes, Greece, Anastasia was the beloved daughter of Emmanouil Ioannis Giannouris and Andriana Hazoglou Giannouris. She married Andrew Kleanthis on July 25, 1954. Together they embarked on a new life in the United States after enduring the hardships of World War II. Anastasia became a proud American citizen and, through her determination and devotion to family, helped bring her two sisters and brother to America to build better lives. On April 24, 1955, she welcomed her first daughter, Andriana, and on May 18, 1958, her second daughter, Despina. Her daughters were the center of her world, and she loved and cherished them throughout her life. Anastasia often shared treasured memories of her childhood in Greece and the experiences that shaped her remarkable character. After losing her mother at a young age, she became the matriarch of her family, caring for her younger siblings through difficult times. Her family was her greatest joy and purpose, and she gave of herself selflessly to family, friends, and anyone in need. Proud of her Greek heritage, Anastasia embodied resilience, strength, and generosity. A dedicated worker from a very young age, she continued working well into her eighties. Cooking was one of Anastasia’s greatest passions. Alongside her brother George and brother-in-law Dimitri, she helped own and operate United Coney Island in Flint, Michigan, later known as Colossus Family Inn. Her love of cooking never faded, finding joy in sharing food with those she loved well into her 80s. One of Anastasia’s greatest pleasures was gathering with family and friends, sharing stories, laughter, and memories. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and loved. Her kindness, warmth, and unwavering love for others—especially her family—will be remembered always. She will be deeply missed, and her joyful spirit and unforgettable laugh will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. Anastasia was preceded in death by her husband, Andrew Kleanthis; her parents, Emmanouil and Andriana Giannouris; her siblings George Giannouris, Ioannis Giannouris, Stergoula (Dimitri) Potsos, and Despina (Everett) Trifon; and many other cherished family members. She is survived by her loving daughters, Andriana (Steve) Kiriazis and Despina (Mark) Liccardello; her cherished grandchildren, Claudia Kiriazis, Anthony Liccardello, Yianni Kiriazis, Christina (Jim) Link, and Maria (Paul) Dosch; and her adored great-grandchildren, Adalina and Anastasia Link, and Michael and Stavros Dosch. She is also survived by her beloved sister, Vasilia (the late Costa) Varvoudakis; sister-in-law Anna Giannouris; and many treasured nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Funeral Service Family and friends may pay their respects on Friday, June 26, 2026, beginning at 9:30 a.m. at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church, 21800 Marter Road, St. Clair Shores, Michigan. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Assumption Greek Orthodox Church, 21800 Marter Road, St. Clair Shores, MI 48080. May her memory be eternal.

Anastasia 'Tessie' Kleanthis

December 22, 1933 - June 23, 2026