Nicki Manakas, the daughter of Angelo and Martha Christie, the wife of Zeses Manakas, was born in Macedonia, Greece, in 1931, passed away May 2, 2019 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She resided in Bergenfield, NJ with her family since 1967. Recently she was resident in a memory care facility and spent her last 90 days enjoying care and attention in her son’s home.
She is joining in heaven with her husband Zeses, her sister and best friend, Melpo and brother-in-law, James Parlitsis. In life, these four were loving, supportive and formed the nucleus of two extended families. Nicki missed their company and was looking forward to reuniting with them.
Nicki migrated from Greece with family to New York City when she was 15 years old. She quickly picked up English, was a quick study in school and made an impressive adjustment to life in the U.S. She married Zes in 1950 in a Greek Orthodox Church double wedding ceremony with her sister in New York City. Her children were born in 1951 and 1954. She was fluent in both English and Greek languages and was a notable cook of traditional Greek food and pastries. Nicki worked as a sales clerk with Macy’s department store.
Nicki is survived by her sons Ted (Ellen) and Van Manakas, grandchildren Theo, Gus and Maggie, her brother Chris Christie (Mary), and extended family and friends she has loved for her life. Nicki had a comfortable way of making everyone feel welcome and special. She was warm, caring and the most loving mom, wife, Yia Yia, sister, aunt, cousin and caregiver.
Special thanks and deep appreciation to Abode Hospice staff in Colorado Springs for their caring treatment of Nicki and family during this last year.
Nicki will be brought back to George Washington cemetery in Paramus, NJ, for burial with a date to be finalized, likely in early June.
Father Dennis, of Archangel Michael provided traditional prayers, blessings and home visits to Nicki and is greatly appreciated.
In lieu of flowers family suggests donations to Archangel Michael Greek Orthodox Church, 2215 Paseo Road, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80907.
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