Tina Surles

Born in Chicago to Greek parents, James and Evangeline Hilares, Tina is survived by her daughter, Georgina Landovsky (husband, John), her son, James D. Surles (wife, Linda), and her beloved grandchildren: Nicolette Surles, Christopher Surles, and Michael Surles. Beloved sister of the late Peter Hilares and the late John Hilares. She is also survived by nieces, nephew, and cousins who cherished her deeply.

Tina lived a life marked by resilience, warmth, and a deep love of people. She raised two children as a single mother, showing extraordinary strength and devotion throughout her life. She had a kind word and a smile for everyone she met, and her radiant, outgoing personality made her beloved by many. Tina especially loved dancing and socializing, and she was fiercely proud of her Greek heritage.

Determined to build a better life for herself and her children, Tina worked full-time while attending Morris Business College, mastering shorthand from dictation records and pursuing every opportunity to grow. She even learned to drive—in her 40s—never allowing challenges to stand in her way.

Tina’s career spanned several notable Chicago firms. She began in secretarial roles at First National Bank, advanced through the ranks at Lester B. Knight & Associates, a prominent engineering and architectural firm, and ultimately became the administrative assistant to Douglas Kramer, Chairman of Draper and Kramer—one of the country’s oldest and most respected real estate firms. She accomplished all of this while single-handedly raising her children, always with grace and dedication.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff, caregivers and nurses at The Radcliff in Wood Dale and Suncrest Hospice, who lovingly supported Tina in her final year. Though dementia gradually claimed many of her memories, it never touched her spirit. Tina remained joyful, affectionate, and full of life—especially in the presence of others.

Visitation will be held at Montclair Lucania Funeral Home, 6901 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60634 on August 12 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A church service will follow the next day, August 13 at St. Nicholas Albanian Orthodox Church, 2701 N Narragansett Ave, Chicago, IL 60639, in Chicago. Tina will be laid to rest at Elmwood Cemetery, 2905 N Thatcher Ave, River Grove, IL 60171.