Chrisanthe (Kazalis) Koutroulis, 100, of Shrewsbury died Monday, August 17th in Holy Trinity Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. She leaves her daughter, Mary Bitsakis of Shrewsbury; and her grandson, George Bitsakis and his wife, Melissa Miller and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, John Koutroulis; her son-in-law, Stelios Bitsakis; and her brothers and their wives, Micheal and Margaret Kazalis and George Kazalis and Koula.
She was born in Chicopee, the daughter of the late Nicholas and Antigone (Mihelakis) Kazalis. Chrisanthe was a hardworking and devoted woman whose life was centered around her family, her faith, and caring for those around her.
For many years, she worked as a stitcher for Newton Sportswear before continuing her career with the David Clark Company. After a lifetime of dedicated work, Chrisanthe retired in 1992.
Her Greek Orthodox faith was an important part of her life. She was a longtime member of St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, where she was actively involved with the Senior Group and the Ladies Philoptochos Society. She also enjoyed participating in the Cathedral’s Greek Festival, sharing in the traditions, fellowship, and community that meant so much to her.
Chrisanthe found great happiness in the simple pleasures of home and family. She loved gardening and could often be found tending to her plants and enjoying the beauty of her yard. She was a wonderful cook and baker who delighted in preparing food for family and friends. For Chrisanthe, cooking and baking were expressions of love, and she was happiest when she could make something for others to enjoy.
In her younger years, Chrisanthe enjoyed sewing, a talent that complemented the skill and care she brought to her work as a stitcher. She also had a special affection for animals and wildlife. She loved feeding the animals that visited her yard and would often talk to them as though they were old friends.
Above all, Chrisanthe will be remembered for the warmth and care she showed to those around her. Whether she was preparing a meal, baking something special, tending her garden, participating in her church community, or simply enjoying the animals outside her window, she found joy in caring for others and in the everyday moments that made life meaningful.
Her visitation will be on Friday, August 21st beginning at 10:00 a.m. in St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 102 Russell Street, Worcester followed by her funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery, 119 Webster Street, Worcester.