Sylvia Maragakis Varanakis

Sylvia, beloved Mom, Yiayia (grandmother), and Aunt passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on May 8, 2017. Sylvia was born on March 3, 1923 in Mohrland, Utah to Nicholas John and Alexandra Platsidakis Maragakis. Sylvia grew up in Hiawatha, Utah as a true "Coal Miner's Daughter". On September 17, 1950, she married the love of her life, Mike N. Varanakis. They had three sons, Nick, John and Jeff.

Sylvia was a devout member of the Greek Orthodox Church and was involved in the Philoptochos Women's' Chapter for over 75 years. She could be found helping at the Greek Festival in the accounting room. Sylvia was also an active member in Daughters of Minos for over 75 years joining with her mother when she was just 15 years old. She enjoyed her Bridge group who played together for over 50 years. She loved sports and was called "Sports Central" by all who knew her. If you ever needed to know something about the Utah Jazz, University of Utah, or the NFL she was just a phone call away.

Sylvia was a fantastic cook and enjoyed having her family around so she could prepare her special dishes. If you didn't find her in the kitchen, you could find her with a paintbrush in her hand creating beautiful oil paintings. Sylvia enjoyed traveling with her husband and family and looked forward to trips to Wendover for a fun filled day.

Sylvia worked from a very young age and one of the most enjoyable positions she held was with Dic and Dorsey Trentman as they created Weight Watchers in Utah.

She is survived by her sons Nick (Ellen), John (Bunnie) and Jeff; sister Mary (Louie) Thiros;  sister-in-law (Kornelia) Maragakis; grandchildren Mike, Nicole and Alexandra (Chad) Austin; and numerous nieces and nephews, as well as her godson, Bill Feotis, and her favorite grand puppy, Elvis.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband; brother John N. Maragakis; sister, Leni (Harris) Cairo.

Visitors may pay their respects at Stark's Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City, on May 11, 2017 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm with the Trisagion Service at 7:00 pm.

Funeral Services will be held at Saint Anna's Greek Orthodox Church, 3015 East Creek Road, Cottonwood Heights, on May 12, 2017 at 11:00 am.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Inspiration Hospice Care. Also to Gigi, who provided loving care for Sylvia during her stay at home, as well as all the other caregivers for their compassion, dedication and comfort.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Saint Anna's Greek Orthodox Church Building Fund.

Mom, Yiayia, we love you and will miss you dearly.

May Her Memory Be Eternal.