Mercina Vatakis, of Buena Park, California, born March 1, 1939 passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home on November 09, 2015. Her loving husband of 57 years and her children were by her side.
At the age of 15, Mercina immigrated from her birthplace, Chios Greece with her parents and two brothers. As the oldest sibling, and only girl, her maternal instincts surfaced at a very young age; she was always very nurturing and supportive of her younger brothers.
There was nothing that Mercina loved more in life than her family. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Her focus in life was to care for and tend to the needs of her family. She enjoyed interacting and playing with her grandchildren along with planning and preparing large gatherings which always included an abundance of food. It was her nature to love unconditionally, and to always recognize the good in people; she never passed judgment. Mercina always lent her support graciously and lovingly. Her love and beautiful spirit will forever warm our hearts and light our way.
Mercina's Greek Orthodox faith was paramount in how she lived her life as a Christian. She emulated the life of Christ and was a true testament to her faith. She trusted that God was in in control of all aspects of life . . . with prayer and faith everything would work out according to God's plan. It was a blessing to have felt the hand of God through the gentle touch of his servant, Mercina. As a parishioner of St. John's Greek Orthodox Church for over 40 years, she graciously volunteered her time for church functions and services. She especially enjoyed baking the Prosforo for Sunday services.
Mercina is survived by her devoted husband, Antonios, children, Rita Sourias (Petros), Louie Vatakis, Lisa Vatakis, and Kostandine Vatakis (Elaine); grandchildren, Teddy Sourias, Debbie Sourias, Tony Vatakis, Matina Vatakis, Mercina Vatakis, and Anthony Vatakis; great grandchild Pete Sourias; brothers Milton Maris and John Maris (Tasia) and many nieces and nephews. She was proceeded in death by her parents, George and Lemonia Maris.
Trisagion services will be held Sunday, November 15, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. at Saint John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church, located at 405 Dale Street, Anaheim, California 92801. Funeral services will be held at Saint John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church, November 16, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. Following the church service a luncheon (Makaria) will be held in the church fellowship hall. Interment to follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery, located at 4471 Lincoln Avenue, Cypress, California 90630.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church.
Arrangements are under the direction of Chapman Funeral Homes - Terry & Mary Harmon, Funeral Directors (855) 628-0447.