Fotine "Footie" L. Kelaidis

January 6, 1928-August 10, 2024

Footie was born on the Greek Orthodox feast day of Epiphany and she reflected the bright light of Christ through her many talents.She was born in Salt Lake City to Louis M. Lingos and Adelina Burascano. Footie was the 3rd of four daughters and last surviving member of her family. Footie was proud of her heritage as the daughter of Greek and Italian immigrants. She embraced a vibrant life saying she was 27 years old until she was in her 80´s. That mantra gave her the ability to live an active life every day.

Footie married John Kelaidis on July 20, 1947. They had three children and spent nearly 75 years together. John adored Footie and together they had many adventures traveling around the world to destinations including Greece, Italy, Japan, cruises and many more places. They loved traveling in their motorhome, fishing, and going to the sand dunes with their grandchildren and friends. A perfect trip included fishing, slot machines and sightseeing. She fearlessly drove the giant motor home as often as John did.

Footie was a natural born artist and her gift was reflected in all she did. As an artist, she created beautiful pieces and enjoyed many mediums including oil paints, acrylics, and more. She created amazing ink sketches and paintings. Footie enjoyed designing unique shirts and bags. A lasting example of her art is the mural on the stage inside the Hellenic Memorial building, created for the Greek Festival. She also designed the official Greek Festival logo.

Footie loved her faith and as a member of the Greek Orthodox Church, she spent many years volunteering her time and talents earning her the title of Mrs. Philoptochos. She initiated the Senior Citizens luncheon program and ran monthly luncheons for 17 years. The gatherings would often have over 100 people in attendance and the program exists to this day, over 50 years later.

In the early days, the church ladies group ran a bazaar featuring Greek pastries and homemade crafts. Footie along with others envisioned a bigger community event which led to the Greek festival. Footie’s family still enjoys working and promoting this project today.

Footie was in charge of decorating the Kouvouklion for Good Friday of Holy Week for Easter and created unique and beautiful floral designs each year. This long tradition has now been carried on by her grandchildren and is a cherished annual event.

As an exceptional homemaker, Footie took pride in her pristine and ornate home. She was a wonderful cook who enjoyed hosting for family and friends including her ladies poker group. Footie loved gardening and many adored her immaculate gardens. She loved spending time growing beautiful flowers and delicious vegetables.

To us, she was a beloved mom and Yiayia. We remember her wonderful cooking, her competitiveness at game nights, and holidays which she made so special. The memories we’ve made with Yiayia and Papoo will always stay close to our hearts. She is survived by her daughters Mary Kay Bonica and Tina Kelaidis & son-in-law Chuck Dover, and daughter-in-law Sally Kelaidis; her grandchildren John Dover, Adelina & Brad Littler, Andrea Dover & Steve Gunn and Marina & Trey Cox; her great-grandchildren Alexander & Cyrus Littler and Elio & Zoe Dover; and many nephews and nieces including Esther Gabaldon.

The passing of Footie’s son Steve Kelaidis six years ago and her husband John Kelaidis three years ago had been a hardship for her these past years. She is also preceded in death by her parents and sisters Josephine Kelaidis, Helen Lingos and Marina Lingos.

A viewing will be held in her honor on Monday, August 19, 2024 from 6:00-8:00 pm at Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church in Holladay, UT. Interment services will be private. Donations can be given to the Philoptochos Senior Citizens luncheons in lieu of flowers.

We would like to thank Ana and Yao for their love and support. As well as the many family and friends who took the time to reach out to her over the past few years. We will miss you dearly, our mother, Yiayia, aunt, and beloved friend. Memory be eternal.