Maria Karakozis, age 74, of Portage, Indiana passed away Monday, November 13, 2023 at her home surrounded by her family. She was born September 18, 1949 in Chios, Greece to the late Mihail and Eleni Giannouris. Maria worked at Rosewood Family Restaurant for many years before retiring to spend time with her family. She was a loving wife, mother, and yiayia. Maria loved to travel with her family, she loved gardening/flowers, and adored cooking for her family.

Maria is survived by her three children; Mike (Brandi) Karakozis, Kelly Karakozis, and Valandi (Brittney) Karakozis; five grandchildren Maria, Kelsie, Kosta, Zoie, and Zayne; brothers Panagiotis (Markella) Gianouris; Marko (Maggie) Karakozis; Paraskevi Karakozis; and many nieces, nephews, and family friends.

Maria was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 43 years, Kostantinos Karakozis; parents Mihail and Eleni Giannouris; brother Kostantinos Giannouris; mother and father in-law; Mihail and Kalliopi Karakozis; in-laws, Pantelis and Paraskevi Tsilimos, Ioannis and Angeliki Karakozis; Pantelis and Katina Mamounas; George Karakozis; and nephew Michael Mamounas.

Funeral services will be 10:00 am Saturday, November 18, 2023 at Ss. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral 8000 Madison Street Merrillville, Indiana 46410 with Rev, Theodore Poteres officiating. Burial will follow in Calumet Park Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, November 17, 2023 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.  at Rees Funeral Home 600 W. Old Ridge Road Hobart, Indiana with a 5pm Trisagion service.