Christine Mirras

Christine Mirras, 89, passed away on Friday, August 3, 2012 in Woodland Hills, California after years of declining health. She is survived by three grandchildren -- Joanne, Nick and Chris -- and seven great-grandchildren: Cole, Peter, Megan, Michael, Thomas, Alex and Nolan. Her son, John, preceded her by exactly two years, passing on August 3, 2010.

Christine was the matriarch of the Mirras family, a powerful personality who influenced everyone she included in her life. She was generous with her time and attention, and came to demand the very best from those around her. Her family was her central concern, and she cherished their closeness.

Christine was born in Jersey City, New Jersey, to George and Kaleopie Vasilas. From the very beginning, she blazed her own trail: She married young, but became a single mother in a time when it was almost unheard of. She took her 13-year-old son to Greece with her when she served with the State Department. She returned to the United States and became a 50-year resident of California. She was a savvy investor, enjoyed jewelry, purses and hats, and did not suffer fools gladly.

She endured the greatest tragedy of her life when her son became a quadriplegic in 2000. But his resilience in the face of his condition, and her faith and powerful dedication to him, inspired everyone they came in contact with.

Her final years were more peaceful. After a lifetime of making her own way, she slowed down, and enjoyed daily visits from grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her final hours were quiet, her final words an unexpected "Good morning!" to her granddaughter Joanne. She passed away knowing she was loved.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Gates, Kingsley & Gates Praiswater Mortuary at 6909 Canoga Ave., Canoga Park, CA 91303. A viewing will be held there, 4:00 through 8:00pm, on Wednesday, August 8, 2012. The funeral will begin at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church -- 9501 Balboa Blvd., Northridge, CA 91325 -- at 11:00am on Thursday, August 9, 2012 and continue immediately after with an internment at Oakwood Cemetery, at 22601 Lassen St., Chatsworth, CA 91311. Flowers may be ordered from the West Hills Flower Shoppe, ‪6800 Platt Ave.,‬ ‪West Hills, CA 91307‬, ‪(866) 735-2509.‬