Sophia M. Daskalakis

SOPHIA MICHAEL DASKALAKIS

August 6, 1930 – February 16, 2024

 

It is with great sorrow we announce that Sophia Michael Daskalakis died peacefully with her children by her side in the home in Burlingame. Her departure leaves a deep wound and is greatly felt by her family and the countless others who loved her deeply.

 

Her journey began in 1930 in Oakland, California where she was born to Aristea and Stelios Marcoulis of Crete, Greece. She was a beloved daughter and the “apple” of her father’s eye. She is predeceased by her adoring husband, Michael Emmanuel Daskalakis and her doting brother, Mike Marcoulis. She went on to graduate from San Francisco State University with a bachelors degree in physical education.

 

In 1951 she married the love of her life, Michael Daskalakis, and shortly afterward they moved to New York where she became mother to three children: Aris, Alex, and Renee. Her role as a mother emphasized her unconditional love, strength, generosity and devotion. Much of her joy came from her children who truly believe they hit the “jackpot” having her as their mom.

 

In the early 80’s the family moved back to the Bay Area where she saw her children marry and the arrival of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She delighted in being called Nana by her grandchildren: Anthony, Andrew, Alessandra and Elizabeth; her son-in-law, Tom; her granddaughters-in-law, Kayla, Blair, and Alison, and her cherished great grandchildren: Michael, Amelia, Nicholas and Lucy. Having an amazing memory, she shared entertaining stories from throughout her life with all of them. Countless hours were spent around the dinner and holiday table when it was “story time.”

 

She will be remembered for her enormous heart, wonderful sense of humor and how much fun she was to be with. Her sparkling blue eyes and warm smile would light up the room. Truly gifted, it was effortless for her to attract and engage people of all ages. She accepted everyone with an open heart, open arms and a perpetual smile. Sophia cared deeply for the people around her and made an impact on many lives.

 

Per her wishes, funeral services were private for the immediate family only. Entombment followed at Mountain View Cemetery in Oakland.

 

Sophia will be truly missed and will never, ever be forgotten….until we meet again!

 

In her memory, donations can be made  to: Mills-Peninsula Hospital Foundation, 1501 Trousdale Drive, Burlingame 94010 www.sutterhealth.org/mills/giving or call 650-696-5990.