Sam A. Sianis

Sam A. Sianis, 91, of Park Ridge, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026 surrounded by his family. Born on December 12, 1934, in Palaiopyrgos, Greece, he was a beloved son of the late Athanasios and Theophana Sianis.

Sam’s life was marked by humility, dedication, and an unwavering love for his family. As the longtime owner of the iconic Billy Goat Tavern, he became a cherished Chicago legend and a successful restaurateur. His tireless work ethic and deep devotion to his tavern brought joy to many, making the "Cheezborger" catchphrase well known across the nation and inspiring memorable sketches on “Saturday Night Live.” He was an avid Cubs fan and played an instrumental role in lifting the Billy Goat Curse, a hex his uncle put on the Cubs because they wouldn't allow his pet goat into Wrigley Field, thus causing the Cubs to have decades of losing seasons.

He was a beloved husband to his wife Irene, a devoted father to Bill (Boriana), Tom (Eleni), Paul (Panagiota), Ted (Jenn), Jenny (the late Mark) Constantinou, and Patty, and a loving grandfather to twelve grandchildren. Beyond family, Sam was a friend to countless others whose lives he touched.

In honor of his memory, donations may be made to St. Basil Greek Orthodox Church https://stbasilchicago.wufoo.com/forms/s13xlp5x16lrd6p/ or the Greek American Rehab Centre https://www.greekamericancare.org/donate

Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 10am at St. Basil Greek Orthodox Church, 733 S. Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL 60607. Interment will follow at Ridgewood Memorial Park. Visitation will take place on Thursday, May 21, 2026 from 4-8pm at Muzyka and Son Funeral Home, 5776 W. Lawrence Ave., Chicago, IL 60630.

Arrangements by Demeros Funeral and Cremation Services. For more information, please call 847-302-7176