Serafim Panagopoulos, affectionately known as Sam, passed away on July 23, 2026, in Naperville, Illinois, from natural causes at the age of 88.
Born on September 23, 1937, in Athens, Greece, Sam was a man who valued family, hard work, and good company. Those who knew him best will remember him as funny, friendly, and intelligent, with a quick wit and a kind heart that made others feel welcome in his presence.
Sam was the beloved husband of the late Johanna “Litsa” Panagopoulos. Together, they built a family that was the center of his world and the source of his greatest pride. He was a loving father to Sandy Strickling and John Panagopoulos and a proud father-in-law to Mimi Panagopoulos.
His role as a Papou (grandfather) brought him tremendous joy. He cherished his grandchildren Tyler (Emily) Strickling, Madden Panagopoulos, and Ander Panagopoulos, delighting in their accomplishments, their laughter, and the moments they shared together.
He was the cherished son of the late Ioannis and the late Sotiria Panagopoulos and a fond brother to the late Sotirios, Irini, Nikolaos, the late Demetrios, and the late Marina.
Though he has left this world, the legacy Sam leaves behind is one of love, laughter, and steadfast devotion to family. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, in the stories they share, and in the values he embodied throughout his long life.
Visitation: Monday, July 27, 2026, 9 to 10 a.m. at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church, 7560 S. Archer Road, Justice, Illinois.
Funeral Service: Monday, July 27, 2026, 10 a.m. at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church, 7560 S. Archer Road, Justice, Illinois.
Interment: Bethania Cemetery, Justice, Illinois.