Sofia Tsakopoulos

In Loving Memory of Sofia Tsakopoulos January 9, 1934 – August 23, 2026 

Sofia Tsakopoulos, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully in Sacramento, California, surrounded by the love of her family. 

Sofia was born in Chicago, Illinois, to Gregory and Maria Tsurekidis. The cherished only daughter in the family, she was raised alongside her beloved older brother, Peter “Pródromos,” in Chicago’s historic Greektown. Her childhood, immersed in Greek culture, faith, tradition, and community, remained a treasured part of her life.

 Sofia and Peter shared a lifelong bond of deep affection and devotion. More than a brother, Peter was an important influence in her life, whose guidance and love she carried with her throughout the years. As her family moved from Chicago’s Greektown to the suburbs—first Cicero, then Addison, and eventually Glen Ellyn—Sofia began the chapter she cherished most: raising her four children, Frank, Maria, Cathy, and Lisa.

She married John Kyriakos Tsakopoulos, and together they built a family rooted in love, hard work, and Greek tradition. Her children were the center of her world, and motherhood was the role she cherished above all others. In time, Sofia and John moved to Northern California, beginning a new chapter in their lives. Although their marriage later ended, the family they created remained their greatest and most enduring bond. 

Sofia’s Greek heritage and Orthodox faith were deeply woven into her life. She was a devoted member of the Greek Orthodox Church of Saint Demetrios and an active member of the Greek community of Bensenville. She served her church as a Sunday school teacher and later as President of the Philoptochos Society. Her faith was something she lived and lovingly passed on to her family.

 Sofia was also a trailblazer. In 1972, she became a computer programmer at Pioneer Screw and Nut in Elk Grove, Illinois, and later earned her real estate license—accomplishments that reflected her intelligence, determination, independence, and willingness to forge her own path. Those who knew Sofia will remember her remarkable strength, elegant presence, quick wit, and wonderful sense of humor. Her infectious laugh and touch of mischief could brighten any room. She spoke her mind, knew what she valued, and was unapologetically herself. Her warmth, spirited personality, and unmistakable presence left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her. 

Above all, Sofia was a mother and grandmother whose family was her greatest pride. As the family grew, so did the circle of her love. Her grandchildren and great-granddaughter brought her immeasurable happiness, and she treasured the stories, laughter, traditions, and memories they shared. 

Sofia is survived by her loving children: Frank and daughter-in-law Jeanine; Maria and son-in-law Mario; Cathy and son-in-law Leo; and Lisa; her beloved grandchildren, Jonathon and his wife Morgan, James, Angelo, Katerina, and Angelina; and her precious great-granddaughter, Sofia. 

Her greatest legacy lives in the family she nurtured and the people she loved. The traditions she cherished, the faith she held dear, the wisdom she shared, and the love she gave so freely will continue through the generations. Her children will carry her memory. Her grandchildren will carry her stories. And her great-granddaughter will carry her name. Though Sofia’s presence is no longer beside us, her imprint remains—in the traditions she kept alive, the laughter she inspired, the lessons she taught, and the love that continues within her family. 

Sofia will be deeply missed, but she will never be forgotten. Her love will remain a quiet and enduring presence in the hearts of all those who knew and loved her. Sofia’s memory will forever be a blessing. May her memory be eternal. 

Memorial Donations In accordance with Sofia’s wishes, please consider a memorial donation in lieu of flowers to one of the following churches: Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church – Sacramento 616 Alhambra Blvd. Sacramento, CA 95816 Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church – Sacramento Saint Katherine Greek Orthodox Church 9165 Peets Street Elk Grove, CA 95758 Saint Katherine Greek Orthodox Church – Donations