Despina Kreatsoulas (CRRA Director of Events and past Director of Administration) passed away on Saturday, June 4, 2022 after battling terminal cancer. She was only 52. This is an incredible loss for CRRA, for her family and for the many others with whom she shared her passion for life.
John Dane (previous CRRA Executive Director) hired Despina in 2014. He stated “She was one of the very best individuals I ever had the honor to hire. When checking her references, I spoke with her Greek history professor at Sacramento State where Despina was completing her master’s degree. The professor said “We simply don’t see students of her caliber here at Sac State”.”
Despina was incredibly proud of her Greek heritage. Each year she would travel to Greece, often twice a year for a week or two, while she worked full-time for CRRA. I think we can all say that she did not miss a beat. For the CRRA community, Despina’s competence, persistence and caring were evident each day. She uniquely and effectively helped make CRRA the strong, vibrant organization that it is today.
In lieu of flowers, the family humbly requests a memorial donation in her memory to Despina’s own exhibit at The Hellenic Museum of Michigan:
The Politismos Museum of Greek History
c/o The Hellenic Museum of Michigan
67 E. Kirby Detroit, MI 48202
Despina’s services will be streamed via the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation’s broadcast system on Wednesday, June 8 at 6pm. To pray with them online, please visit: www.annunciationsac.org and click on “live services.”
It is so hard to come to terms with the fact that she is no longer with us. Her spirit and force are a true inspiration, and one that will live on in CRRA.
Despina, on behalf of the CRRA Board of Directors, Advisors and Staff, we thank you for gracing us with an amazing 8 years of your leadership. Your energy, enthusiasm, commitment and love for CRRA was evident, and you will be missed more than words can say.
May you rest in peace.