Tom "Τάσος  Αναστάσιος " Tsafogiannis, an ever generous, light-hearted, and accepting soul, passed away on June 17, 2024. Born on August 23, 1947 (he was never sure his actual birth date in his small Greek village but he thought it was at “the end of August” ).  Tom was known for his funny, calm spirit, love for his family, and Greek heritage. His life was filled with laughter, conversation, and large servings of his favorite foods, ranging from meats to Greek dishes, pancakes, ice cream, and pistachios.

Tom made the brave journey from Greece to Chicago in 1977, where he started his new life and later married MaryAnn Rose in 1979. They were blessed with two daughters. Tom gave his family everything he had. Literally he used to say “you want it? Take it!” 

 In 2001, he moved to Streamwood, IL. He retired as a machinist in 2006 after a long and dedicated career. Tom remarried in 2023 to his surviving wife, Dolly Tsafogiannis.

Tom, also known as Papou, had a zest for life that was evident to all around him. He was a dedicated fan of the Chicago Bears and loved watching CNN. With a playful spirit and a love for games ranging from poker to slots, he was often heard saying, “Greeks always win!” He took pleasure in gambling, clearance shopping, and relished every opportunity to share a meal. His favorite form of exercise was chasing watermelons, a task he undertook with mucho gusto.

His favorite local spots included Grand Victoria and Auto Zone, where he befriended many.  He loved visiting Greece, cherishing every opportunity to reconnect with his roots. His causes were simple yet profound - his family, whom he loved dearly.

Tom is survived by his daughter Angelina Endresen, daughter Vicki Tsafogiannis, his son-in-laws Mike Endresen and Greg White, and his grandchildren Haddon, Jemma, Harrison, Mora and Desmond and wife Dolly.  He is predeceased by his ex-wife MaryAnn Rose, his mother Βασιλική Τσαφογιαννη, his father Κωσταντίνου Τσαφογιάννη, and his brothers Παναγιώτη and Νίκος Τσαφογιαννη and his beloved dog Ozzy.

Tom leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and generosity. He came to America not knowing anyone, learned the language and started a family. His life was a testament to his philosophies  of  “I no see why not”,  “you like it, you take it” and “how much?”   Tom was not a rich man, but he was wealthy in all the ways that mattered – he showered those he loved with love, food, flowers, cash, candy, and jokes.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/tom-tsafogiannis/obituary/

Copy