Obituary of Betty Panouses

Betty Panouses, 99, of Indialantic Florida joined the Lord in His Kingdom on Friday Dec 8, 2023.  Betty was born in Chicago to George and Ida Hotes on July 15, 1924. 

In high school she excelled in sports, music and art. She demonstrated dedication to her after school job and was promoted to manager of Davidsons Bakery upon graduation. She attended and completed studies at the Chicago Institute of Art. Her art work was exemplified in the many drawings and paintings she donated to various causes and organizations. Her profile sketches honored individuals of distinction and remembrance. During WW2 her artistic talent and organizational skills promoted her to a supervisory position in the Department of Defense.  After the end of the war she met and married Tom Panouses the love of her life. Together they raised three children and started the family business, T&T Excavating in Lincolnwood Illinois.

After retirement in 1995 they moved to Melbourne to be close to family already living in the area and just in time to babysit the grandchildren.  She was active in her church community of St Katherine Greek Orthodox Church and was a dedicated member of the church choir, as she was for the many years at the St Demetrios Greek Church in Chicago. She supported all the youth activities of her children taking them to Sunday School, Scouts and Greek language school throughout their early years. She loved to travel and enjoyed seeing the beauty this country offers. She will be remember as a dedicated and loving mother and grandmother. Betty was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tom. Brother and Sister-in-law Ted and Maxine Hotes. Sister and Brother-in-law Helen and Nick Jumes. Sister and Brother-in law Rea and LtCol Russel Kalessa. Sister and Brother-in-law Georgia and Andrew Laris.

She is survived by son, Chris (Esther) Panouses, daughter Hedy Panouses, son Kurt (Tracy) Panouses  and grandchildren Tommy and Elena. Niece, Renee Jumes.

Visitation will be at St Katherine Greek Orthodox Church 5965 N Wickham Rd Melbourne Florida  between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM on December 19. 2023.  Liturgy will begin at 11:00 AM followed by burial at Florida Memorial Gardens.

In Lieu of flowers contributions may be made to St Katherine Greek Orthodox Church Building Fund or The Children’s Food Pantry.