Steve Stylianos Tzeranakis

Steve Stylianos Tzeranakis passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on January 13, 2018 at the age of 72. Steve was born April 24, 1945 to Steve E. and Amalia Tzeiranakis in Drapano, Crete, Greece. He was the second of five children.
Steve came to America aboard the Queen Elizabeth when he was 10 years old, entering the port of New York in 1955. Tears were brought to his eyes upon seeing the Statue of Liberty. He did not speak English when he arrived to the United States. Through hard work, he learned English and graduated in 1963 from Bingham High School in Copperton, Utah.
On January 23, 1964, Steve enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he fought on the front lines in the Vietnam War. He earned the rank of Corporal and proudly served the United States for three years.  Steve was honorably discharged on January 22, 1967. Upon his return, Steve went back to school on the GI Bill and learned the trade of an auto mechanic. Cars were his passion. In 1968, Steve traveled to Crete, Greece where he met and married his wife Stacy Stefanakis on July 22, 1968. They returned to Utah where they had three children and made their home. Steve worked at Kennecott Copper Mine as a mechanic repairing large “gang” machinery while perfecting the trade. In 2000, Steve proudly became a United States citizen.
Steve persevered through many of his life’s challenges with dignity and grace. He never complained of the hand that was dealt to him. He made the best of every moment in his life. Steve’s infectious smile and gentle demeanor, his honesty and integrity, and his good-hearted nature and genuine love for all created many lasting friendships along the way. He had an impact on everyone who crossed his path and he will never be forgotten. His legacy will live on through all who have come to know him. Steve had an unwavering faith in God that was exemplified in the humble and loving way he lived his life. Steve’s children and grandchildren were the absolute light of his life and he was immensely proud of each of them.
Steve is survived by his daughters, Emily (Chris) Mantas, Liberty (Mike) Katzourakis, son Steve S. (Maria) Tzeranakis, nine grandchildren, Demetria Margaretis, Stavro J. Sargetakis, Kaliope Sargetakis, Eleni Katzourakis, George Katzourakis, Steve Katzourakis, Anastasia Katzourakis, Katerina Mantas, and Ana Mantas, sister Klea (Gerard) Gallegos, many nieces and nephews, and godson Ted Kogianes. He was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings Maria, Mary, and George.
The family would like to thank the many doctors, health care providers, caseworkers, and caregivers that cared for Steve. You all had an immeasurable impact on Steve’s life. The family is forever grateful to each and every one of you.
Friends may call Thursday, January 18, 2018, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 279 South 300 West from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm with a Trisagion Service at 7:00 pm. Funeral Services will be held on Friday, January 19, 2018 at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral at 11:00 am. Interment will be held at Mount Olivet Cemetery immediately following the funeral. Arrangements entrusted to Memorial Deseret Mortuary.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Steve’s memory to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral.
AIONIA H MNHMH.
Service Information
Viewing January 18, 2018 at 6:00 - 8:00 PM | Trisagion Service 7:00 PM
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 279 South 300 West, Salt Lake City, Utah





Funeral Service
January 19, 2018 at 11:00 AM
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 279 South 300 West, Salt Lake City, Utah