Paraskevi (Voula) Dritsoulas

Paraskevi (Voula) Dritsoulas

Paraskevi (Voula) Dritsoulas, age 81, passed away at her home in Prodromos, Greece, on Oct. 31, 2012.

Voula was born Sept. 12, 1931, to Theodore and Ekaterini Kovani in Greece. On May 18, 1952, she married Serafim "Sam" Dritsoulas. Together they had two children, a son and a daughter. In 1970 the family immigrated to the United States and made Havre, Mont., their new home.

Sam and Voula left behind their life in Greece to make a better life for their children. She arrived in the United States not speaking a word of English and only knowing a few members of Sam's extended family. Her kind ways and her constant nourishment made those who met her want to be around her.

In addition to raising their two children, Voula worked at the Fair Hotel and later at the Lutheran Home of the Good Shepherd. She received her United States citizenship in 1994, which was a memorable day for her.

Voula was a member of the Greek Orthodox Church in Great Falls. Voula's hobbies included crocheting and baking. She had a talent for being able to crochet beautiful lace doilies, and she was known for her delicious bread and Greek pastries. Voula had an uncanny ability to reach out to others. Her kindness, gentleness and caring were her greatest gifts.

Voula lit up around her grandchildren. She enjoyed watching and spending time with them. They truly were her joy.

Voula was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Serafoula. She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Sam of Prodromos, Greece; her son, George (Areti) Dritsoulas of Havre; her daughter, Rita (Nick) Dupas of Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif. ; five grandchildren, Mike and Vicky Dritsoulas and Sam, Katherine and George Dupas; brother-in-law, John (Arhonto) Dritshulas; sisters-in-law, Katerina Loukas and Panagiota Dimou; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Nov. 3 in Prodromos, Greece. Memorials in Voula's name may be made to the Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 1101 1st Ave. N., Great Falls, MT 59401.