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.
