Obituary of Denis Vardal

Denis Vardal Age 81, of Joliet, passed away peacefully, Sunday, March 27, 2016 at home with his family at his side. Denis was born April 20, 1934 in Mykonos, Greece to Kosta and Kalliopi (Xidakis) Vardalahos, and was adopted later in life by Yanni Koukas, who was Kalliopi's second husband. He came to the United States in 1953, by boat in search of his brother, George, who emigrated two years earlier. He enlisted in the United States Army and served during the Korean War. Following the war, he co-founded Vardal Engineering Supply with his brother, which he owned and operated since 1958. He was a member of Rotary International and the Rotary bowling team. Denis was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather, and became like an adoptive father and grandfather to all he met. He was personable, loving and accepting, and left a lasting impression on everyone. Denis was a brilliantly passionate man with so many interests. First and foremost was his newest granddaughter, Danira, who rarely left his lap. On sunny days, he could be found driving his Alpha Romeo. He loved beating challengers at cards, backgammon and Jeopardy. He was a quiet and patient man who appreciated traveling to new and exotic places but always returning to his homeland, Mykonos, for the people, dancing, food and fun. Surviving are his three loving daughters, Denise (Mark) Baker of Joliet, Debra (Vasillios Korodimos) Vardal of Arachova, Greece, and Dina Vardal of Joliet; three beloved grandchildren, Danira Aiginiti, Alexandros Aiginiti and Danira Vardal; niece, Laura Vardal; and nephew, Paul (Marinela) Vardal. Preceded in death by his wife, Danira (Corso) Vardal (February 13, 2001); his parents; one brother, George (Sandra) Vardal; two sisters in childhood; and his niece, Sande Vardal. Visitation for Denis will be held Thursday, March 31, 2016 from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet. Trisagion Services will be conducted at 6:30 p.m. Interment will be private.