Tony Sarris' Obituary
Anthony (Tony) Sarris, 92, entered his eternal rest on December 25, 2023, with characteristic strength and fortitude through his very last days. His legacy is commemorated in the lives of those he loved. As devoted father of Suzanne (Orlando) and Michael, most loving Papou of Enzo and Anthony James (Orlando), and beloved “Uncle Tony” to many, he is survived by former spouse Olympia and preceded in death by parents Michael and Katina (Dagiasis) Sarris.
As the oldest of three siblings, Tony and brother Matthew (deceased) and sister Manio (Gialouri) were born and raised in Andros, Greece, where a number of Tony’s relatives still reside. He grew up in the village (chorio) of Stenies during the Italian and German occupation. At the age of 15, Tony emigrated to the United States with his mother and two siblings, aboard the Grigorios C III (Liberty Ship). The transatlantic journey required several stops and nearly an entire month at sea, but after making port in New York City, Tony and his family reunited with his father in Cleveland, Ohio, the city that would become his lifelong home. Tony graduated from J.F. Rhodes High School in 1952, where he excelled as a baritone in the choir and as a member of numerous athletic teams. Tony was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, bravely serving his country and receiving an honorable discharge in 1960. Following his Army service he worked diligently to become a member of the IBEW Electrical union and found success in a profession that made excellent use of his skilled craftsmanship and dedication to integrity and a job well done. As an accomplished electrician he recently received recognition from the IBEW for 65-plus years of service. Following his retirement, Tony took pleasure in a variety of interests and jobs – baker, caterer, golf course attendant – each reflecting his lifelong curiosity and his great gift of connecting with people.
As a founding member of St. Paul Greek Orthodox Church in North Royalton, Ohio and an active member of the parish for more than 50 years, Tony thoroughly enjoyed lending his considerable voice to the choir and performing chants during services. His voice was a powerful instrument and he joyfully filled the narthex with Greek hymns, Gospel, and the Lord’s prayer. He always looked forward to the camaraderie and community of the church festival, helping each year with set-up, hanging lights, serving food and drinks, volunteering however he could. In later years he oversaw maintenance services at the church, never missing an opportunity to stop at the “downstairs café” to share memories and good conversation.
Tony’s love of music was boundless. Whether at choir conventions, in countless impromptu appearances with bands at weddings, singing the Ding Ding Song with the Syndicate, or belting out ballads of the Trio Belcanto at home – he took every opportunity to give voice. Tony was singing to the very last day…..
The family will receive friends on Thursday December 28, 2023 from 5:00 to 7:00pm at St. Paul Greek Orthodox Church, 4548 Wallings Road, North Royalton, Ohio 44133. Trisagion Service at 5:00pm
Funeral services will be on Friday December 29, 2023 at 11:00am at St. Paul Greek Orthodox Church, with interment at St. Theodosius Cemetery.
Memorial contributions will be made by the family to St. Paul Greek Orthodox Church and Hospice of the Western Reserve.
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