Obituary of Claire N. Kakatsakis

Claire N. Kakatsakis, a retired school librarian and former employee of Mitre, passed away peacefully on the morning of Sunday, April 6, 2025, at the age of 94.

Claire was born in Little Falls, NY, the daughter of George and Helen Nicholas. Her family moved to Astoria, NY, when she was in elementary school, and it was there that she graduated. Claire met her future husband, James Kakatsakis, on Thanksgiving when her brother, Peter, invited Jim to join their family for the holiday dinner. There was an instant connection between them, and after a romance blossomed, they married in 1951. The couple began their life together in Augusta, Maine, which was a bit of a culture shock for Claire, having grown up in the hustle and bustle of New York City. They later moved to Dorchester, and in 1960, they settled in Burlington, where they raised their two daughters.

Claire was deeply involved in her church and the Burlington community. She was a longtime member of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church, where she was committed to raising her children in the faith and staying connected to her Greek heritage. Claire was also an active member of the Ladies of the Philoptohos. She enjoyed participating in the church's fundraisers, bake sales, socials, events, and festivals. If given the choice, she particularly loved being part of the kitchen staff at these events.

Claire had wonderful neighbors in Burlington who became lifelong friends. She enjoyed sharing a cup of coffee or sitting on the steps with neighbors, watching their children play. She was also a longtime member of the Burlington Garden Club, where she participated in meetings, community garden projects, and social events, even serving as treasurer for a time. Additionally, Claire was a member of a local Bridge Club.

As a wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, and sister, Claire was deeply devoted to her family. She and her husband, Jim, made a beautiful couple, sharing their passions and dreams. Both were avid travelers. They regularly visited Florida, traveled with family to Puerto Rico, and even ventured to Egypt to see the pyramids. One of Claire's most cherished experiences was visiting Greece. The couple returned there three times along with their children and Claire’s mother. This experience brought Claire immense joy, and she loved sharing that part of her life with her family.

Claire treasured every moment spent with her loved ones—whether for holidays, family celebrations, or any activities they enjoyed. She was always happy, never complained, and was extremely accepting of others. Nothing brought her more happiness than being surrounded by her family.

Claire was beloved wife of the late James Kakatsakis.  She was the loving mother of Elaine Koury & her husband Stephen of Randolph, and Elise Robitaille of Dracut.  She was the proud Yiayia of Eileen Koury-Judkins & her spouse Andrea, Emily Robitaille & her companion Joe Rolka, and James Robitaille & his wife Bryanna.  She was the sister of the late Lola Klaus, Cleopatra Spyliopoulos, and Peter Nicholas.  She was the sister-in-law of June Squibb of CA and the late Charles Kakatsakis. 

Visiting hours will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington on Thursday, April 10 from 5-7 p.m. Funeral from the Sullivan Funeral Home on Friday April 11 at 10 a.m. Followed by a funeral service at the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church, Woburn, www.annunciationwoburn.org, at 11 a.m. Services will conclude with a burial at Pine Haven Cemetery, Burlington.  Memorials in Claire’s name may be made to the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church, 70 Montvale Ave, Woburn, 01801.