Sandra M. Ritsos Graff, age 80, passed away on Friday, May 8, 2020. Loving mother of Nikki Avila Graff, Deedee Glaser (Scott Becker), John (Kim) Graff and Kimberly Cary, and devoted daughter of the late Nicholas T. and the late Demetra L. Ritsos. Proud Grammy of Lynzee, Samantha and Lauryn Glaser, Stephanie Avila Graff, Alex Graff, and Louka and Preston Graff. Dear sister of Alcestis “Cookie” (James) Oberg and the late Elyse. Dear friend of Stuart Glaser.
Sandy grew up in Chicago in West Rogers Park where she attended Daniel Boone Elementary School through eighth grade. She later moved to Winnetka with her family where she attended New Trier East High School. She attended University of Wisconsin – Madison for two years of college and then decided to start a family.
Through her life, she was a terrific home maker and cooked Greek food like no other. She taught dances lessons in the 70’s at the YMCA – teaching classes from Saturday Night Fever, to Urban Cowboy and finally started “Sandy’s Naval Academy” in Elmwood Park as a Belly Dancing Instructor, where she hand made all of her costumes. Sandy loved teaching and she LOVED Elvis. She also loved floating in the water whether it was a lake, ocean or a pool…as long as she was in water.
Sandy’s partner of 28 years, Steve “Baba” Jajou, passed on July 5, 2015, and she has missed him dearly ever since.
She was a free spirit and kind to all.
Sandra’s life will be forever cherished by her loving family and friends.
Due to COVID 19 restrictions, Funeral and Interment Services are private. Memorial tributes may be made in Sandra’s name to St. Andrew Greek Orthodox Church, 5649 N. Sheridan Road, Chicago, IL 60660.
May Her Memory Be Eternal.
Sandy was truly one of a kind. She always was a great role model when we were growing up you can’t say that these days. She always talked to you and made you feel like family nor matter how many years passed. My heart breaks for the family but now she is in peace. Keep the memories alive and I know she is dancing in the heavens.
Thanks for being in my life
Colleen Kyle Muno
I love you Colleen
Thank you ????
I love you and will miss you.????
You a Stuart Douglous were such a huge part of each other
Two YENTIES lol
Thank you ???? Love Deedee
Sending our heartfelt condolences to all of Sandy’s family. May she rest in peace and may you all take comfort in the memories and her everlasting love.
We didn’t know you personally Sandy but we do know what an incredible son you raised. He is a caring compassionate son, husband, father, and a life long friend. Our heart breaks for all of you. Love the Frenzel’s
Dear Sandy, may you rip love you ????????
Sandy was always a good person with a kind word and a helping hand for everyone