Pota Koutrobis Obituary (1926 - 2023) - Chelmsford, Massachusetts

Panagiota "Pota/Pat" Koutrobis, a cherished matriarch, departed this world on December 31, 2023, at the age of 97. Pota, born in Lowell, Massachusetts, to Greek immigrants, the late John and Stavroula Marinopoulos, was a beacon of love and strength for her family. She was proud of her fathers service in World War I and the grueling work that both of her parents put into the Lowell shoe mills to provide for her and her four siblings: Charles, Florence, Mary, and Aristedes. Growing up in the Acre section of Lowell, she carried the values of her heritage with grace and warmth. Pota was loved deeply by her late husband, Christos, and her late son, John Koutrobis, along with his wife Sofia; her daughter Valerie Murphy and her husband, Terry, as well as her cherished grandchildren: Panagiota Athinelis and her husband, Antonios; Katerina DiCristofalo and her husband, Justin; Christina Regan and her husband, Michael; Alexandra Murphy; Christos Koutrobis and his fiance, Kerry; and Arianna Barnes and her husband, Joseph. Pota's spirit lives on in her great-grandchildren, John, Tommaso, Constantine, Zoey, and Joseph, as well as many nieces and nephews. A woman of remarkable versatility and a trailblazer in her own right, Pota dedicated herself to three distinct vocations: a devoted public servant, a successful restaurant owner, and an unparalleled mother and grandmother. From 1945 to 1980, she served with unwavering dedication in the Civilian Personnel Office at Ft. Devens and Hanscom Air Force Base. From 1945 to 1952, she served at the Reception Center at Ft. Devens in Ayer, where she played a crucial role in reuniting families after World War II. Her dedication to helping others navigate life's challenges continued from 1959 to 1980 in the Civilian Personnel Office at Hanscom Air Force Base in Bedford, Massachusetts, where she assisted countless individuals in understanding their benefits and offering solace to those who had lost loved ones. For 18 years, Pota and her husband, Christos, owned and operated The Breakers Restaurant at Hull's Nantasket Beach. Later, they supported their son, John, in opening and operating two restaurants in Hull. Pota's remarkable ability to simultaneously manage her familys households, care for her grandchildren, and contribute to thriving businesses reflected her commitment to family. A strong, stylish, and empowering female figure, Pota's influence on her granddaughters was immeasurable. Her commitment to hard work, justice, unconditional love, and impeccable style set a standard for all who knew her. She had a great sense of humor and an infectious laugh that echoed through the house. She stood as a role model for marriage, love, adventure, and family, leaving an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her. Pota's passion for travel, especially to Greece, allowed her to connect with her roots and family, fostering a deep appreciation for her homeland. She also spent many summers in Seabrook, NH, and periods of time at her home in Dunedin, FL. Pota enjoyed going to the beach, entertaining family and friends, and shopping. She had a vibrant social life and an extensive network of friends within her various communities and churches. Her secrets to a long and healthy life were as sweet as her favorite treats: a positive mindset, an unwavering love for her family, and a special affinity for chocolate desserts, sprite, and banana splits. In honoring Panagiota Pota Koutrobis, we celebrate a life well-lived and a profound impact on those fortunate enough to be touched by her grace. Her legacy of love, resilience, and laughter will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. May her memory continue to inspire and guide us, just as her presence enriched our lives. Family and friends will be received on Friday, January 5, 2024 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 71 Chandler Rd., Andover, followed by her Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. to be held at the Church. Interment in Westlawn Cemetery, Lowell. In lieu of flowers, donations in Potas name can be made to the Alzheimers Association, Multiple Sclerosis Society, or Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church. Service Details Visitation When January 5, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am Location Sts. Constantine & Helen Church Address 71 Chandler Rd Andover, MA 01810 Funeral Service When January 5, 2024 11:00am Location Sts. Constantine & Helen Church Address 71 Chandler Rd Andover, MA 01810 Interment When January 5, 2024 Location Westlawn Cemetery Address 215 Boston Road LOWELL, MA 01852