Obituary of Chris G. Tsanjoures

Chris Tsanjoures, 91, of Railroad Street, Putnam, died Monday, August 4, 2008, at the Matulaitis Nursing Home in Putnam. He was the husband of the late Irene (Lekas) Tsanjoures, they were married October 6, 1946 in Worcester, MA, she died March 31, 1986. He was born December 22, 1916 in Albania, son of the late George and Anthoula Tsanjoures. Chris came to the US and settled in New York City in 1935. He worked as a busboy and then as a waiter in New York City nightclubs. In 1943 he enlisted in the United States Army and served with the 292nd Ordinance Maintenance Company. He served in New Guinea, Southern Philippines and was awarded the American Service Medal, the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with Star and the World War Two Victory Medal. He was honorably discharged in 1946. After his marriage he settled in Putnam and owned and operated Chris' Market from 1947 until 1969 and then the Olympic Spa from 1969 to 1975. In 1985 he became employed by the State of Connecticut working at the Dempsey Center. He was an active member of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Danielson. In 1990 the Greek Orthodox Diocese of Boston recognized Chris for his outstanding service to the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Danielson. He was a member of the order of the Ahepa and in 1997 was awarded the lifetime achievement award for his dedication. He was a member of the American Legion and VFW in Putnam. He enjoyed his vegetable gardens and trips to Europe with his wife. Chris was a man that truly loved his family, his church and his country. He would fly the American Flag every day. His family, especially his grandson, was a very important part of his life. He leaves his three sons: John Tsanjoures of Worcester, Ted Tsanjoures and his wife Renee of Pomfret, George Tsanjoures and his wife Denise of East Putnam, a brother William Tsanjoures of Fort Lee, NJ, one grandson Chris Tsanjoures of East Putnam, several nieces and nephews. Funeral Services will be held Thursday, August 7, 2008 at 11:00 AM at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 80 Water Street, Danielson. Burial with Military Honors in Grove Street Cemetery, Putnam. Calling hours Wednesday, August 6, 2008 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Smith & Walker Funeral Home, 148 Grove Street, Putnam. Donations may be made in his memory to the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 80 Water Street, Danielson, CT 06260. To share a memory with his family "Light a Candle" at www.smithandwalkerfh.com