Emaline K. Sackas

Our beloved matriarch, devoted mother, and loving YiaYia passed away on December 27, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and the dedicated caregivers who supported her with such compassion in Salt Lake City, Utah, at the age of 93.

Emaline entered the world on August 8, 1932, at Holy Cross Hospital in Salt Lake City. The daughter of Greek immigrants, she was raised with the values of resilience, integrity, warmth, and a spirited determination. Her parents worked tirelessly to build a life in their new country, eventually achieving their American dream through the ownership and operation of the Glenwood Lounge.

She attended Oquirrh Elementary School, Bryant Junior High School, and graduated from East High School. Although her father hoped she would attend the University of Utah, Emaline’s heart was already set on the love of her life, James A. “Big Jim” Sackas. The two met at an event at Holy Trinity Cathedral, where they would later be married. Their wedding reception was held at the Newhouse Hotel on June 24, 1951. As Emaline often said, she “married the best.” Together they raised two loving children, Louisa and James (“Little Jim”).

In 1970, Emaline began a rewarding 30-year career with the Salt Lake County Recorder’s Office. After retiring, she embraced a full and active life—walking, lifting weights, visiting the shops at Foothill Village, playing bridge, and spending cherished time with friends and family.

Family was always at the center of Emaline’s world. She treasured her Greek heritage and passed down the traditions, customs, and cultural pride that shaped her life. Much like her mother, she found joy in the kitchen—cooking, baking, entertaining, and caring for others. December was her season of generosity, when she filled her home with the aroma of Greek pastries, especially her famous baklava.

Emaline had a gift for making people feel seen and cared for. Warm, social, and endlessly thoughtful, she touched countless lives with her kindness.

She is survived by her children Louisa S. Boswell (Robert H. Boswell) and James J. Sackas (Suzanne P. Sackas), her grandchildren Annemarie Boswell and Katherine Emaline Sackas and her niece, Carrie Katsis. She is preceded in death by her parents, Chris P. Katsis and Vasaliki (Bess) S. Katsis; her brother, Pete C. Katsis; and her husband, James A. Sackas.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional healthcare team at Aspen Ridge East and the compassionate caregivers from Right at Home. Their loving presence brought companionship, comfort and dignity to Emaline’s final years. Thank you for letting Emaline be the Boss!

A private service will be held, with a celebration of life to follow at a later date. Though her passing leaves a profound void, Emaline’s spirit will continue to live on through the traditions she cherished, the stories we share, the memories we hold, and the strong genes she passed down. May her memory be eternal!

In lieu of flowers, please wear your sunglasses and have your favorite coffee and favorite chocolate!