Elizabeth A. Markos (formerly Nikas), 54, of Ipswich, died peacefully on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2012, in her husband's arms. She was born December 10, 1957, and raised on the North Shore, in Ipswich. Mrs. Markos is survived by her husband, Dana and two children, Daniel and Amanda. Throughout her life Mrs. Markos was known for her quiet strength, kindness, and true love of living. Her dedication to her family and friends was unwavering. In 2009 Mrs. Markos was diagnosed with brain cancer. She spent the last three years of her life surrounded by her husband, son, daughter, countless family and friends, and her beloved animals. Her fight was one fought with grace, courage, and hope.
In 1995 Mrs. Markos, along with her husband, founded Dana Markos Events, a company specializing in wedding and event design. With her good taste, eye for beauty, and loving support, she helped build the business into a respected and sought-after design studio. She was known for the unconditional love and care she provided during her two children's upbringing; never hesitating to become involved with their schooling, interests, and hobbies. Mrs. Markos was an active parishioner of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church in Ipswich, often volunteering in various church activities.
In addition to her husband and children, she is survived by her mother, Sophia (Haritos) Nikas of Ipswich, brother Gregory Nikas, of Newburyport, and sister Martha Nikas of Ipswich. She was very close with her sister-in-law Valerie Paavonpera and her husband, Pekka of Falmouth-Foreside, ME. Mrs. Markos had cousins whom she considered her brothers and sisters; Peter Nikas and Jan Rozelle of Richmond, VA, John and Brenda Nikas-Hayes of Westborough, Peter and Cynthia Nikas of Ipswich, Paul and Jessica Nikas of Ipswich, Steven and Heidi diCicco of Ipswich, and Ann Marie, wife of the late Stephen Foustoukos of Georgetown. Mrs. Markos was predeceased by her father Nicholas Nikas of Ipswich. She was also the niece of Ernest and Barbara Nikas of Ipswich, James and Sirmo Nikas of Ipswich, Paul and Katherine Hatgil of Texas, and god-daughter of Anne Koufos and the late Achilles Koufos of Boston. She will be forever loved and admired by the countless aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends she leaves behind.
ARRANGEMENTS: A funeral service will be held Saturday, February 25th at noon at the Assumption of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church, 8 Lafayette Road, Ipswich. Burial will follow in the New Highland Cemetery, 29 Town Farm Road, Ipswich. Visiting hours will be Friday, February 24th, from 4:00 to 8:00 P.M. in the Morris Funeral Home, 45 North Main Street, Ipswich. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited. Flowers are welcomed, however, donations to the Elizabeth A. Markos Foundation, P.O. Box 612 Ipswich, MA 01938, are also being accepted. The Elizabeth A. Markos Foundation has a mission to assist the financial needs of Brain Cancer patients and their families. For directions or to send condolences to the Markos family please go to: www.MorrisFH.com.
