Geraldine Kacoyannakis, 82, passed away peacefully, March 8, 2023, surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Springfield, she was the daughter of the late Salvatore & Margaret (Mechelli) Santaniello.
Geri devoted her life to her family; she married the love of her life, Van, in 1959 and they spent 63 years together, raising their family.
She worked for many years as a bookkeeper at Holy Name Parish in Springfield.
After retiring, she spent her golden years, traveling with her husband across the United States and abroad to Italy, where she fell in love with Florence, the Amalfi Coast, and Capri.
When she wasn’t traveling, she dedicated most of her time doting on her 10 grandchildren; and had an extremely special and unique relationship with each. Affectionately known as Mema, she made sure she had a front row seat at every game, tournament, show, play, and milestone moment.
The consummate Italian grandmother, Sunday dinners were a must; they were lively, and filled with macaroni, meatballs, and love.
Geri was a faithful communicant of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, where you could find her and Van Saturday afternoons at the 4 o’clock mass.
Geri is survived by her husband of 63 years, Evangelos“Van” Kacoyannakis, children & spouses, Debra A. & Tim Foley, Kenneth J. & Susan Kacoyannakis, Pamela J. & Scott Bussell, and Van R. & Michelle Kacoyannakis, grandchildren, Timothy, Taylor, Cali, Bella, Sal, Julia, Scotty, Matty, Kara, and Evan, sister & spouse, Cheryl & Edward Rivers, and many nieces, nephews, and friends; all of whom she loved and deeply touched.
Along with her parents, she was also predeceased by her brother, Robert Santaniello, and his wife, Barbara Santaniello.
Family and friends are invited to visit Monday, March 13, from 8:00-9:00 a.m. at Tazzini Funeral Home located at 22 Locust Street in Springfield, proceeding to Geri’s 10 a.m. Liturgy of Christian Burial at Mt. Carmel Church, followed by her burial at St. Michael’s Cemetery.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Mt. Carmel Church, 123 William St., Springfield, MA 01105.
Please visit www.TazziniFuneralHome.com for condolences.