It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Vassilios "Bill" Korakis on January 27, 2025, at the age of 58. Born in 1966, in Greece, to Mike and Georgia Korakis, Bill’s life was a testament to love, adventure, and dedication to his family.
At a young age, Vassilis moved with his family to California but maintained a deep connection to his homeland, returning often, where a piece of his heart always remained. In 1998, he married the love of his life, Deborah, and together they shared 27 wonderful years. He was a devoted husband and a proud father to their three children. He was also a cherished son, brother, and a beloved friend to many.
Bill worked for nearly 30 years at the Port of Long Beach as a Top-Handler and Crane Operator. Outside of work, his passion for the outdoors defined him. He was an avid fisherman, hunter, and free-diver who found joy in sharing his love of nature with his family and friends. Whether on his boat, in the mountains, or at his cherished remote cabin in Idaho—his personal "Disneyland"—Bill found peace and fulfillment in the natural world.
Known for his courage, generosity, and storytelling, Bill brought life to every gathering with tales of his adventures. He made new friends everywhere he went and his sense of humor brought a smile to everyone who knew him. He could fix absolutely anything, and was known for dropping everything to come to the aid of his family and friends in a moment of need. His love for his family was boundless; he shared with them not only his knowledge of the outdoors but also his enduring strength and spirit.
Vassilios was a true believer of Christ and his faith in the Lord was unwavering. He grew up in the Greek Orthodox Church and his love for his community was beautiful. He shared his faith with his wife and children, providing the lovely example for them of what it means to be a man of God.
Preceded in death by his parents, Mike and Georgia Korakis, Vassilis is survived by his wife Deborah; son Michael; twin daughters Eleni and Sophia; sister Kiki (Richard); father-in-law Thomas; sisters-in-law Lauri (Michael) and Jennifer (John); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
The Trisagion service will be held at Saint Katherine's Greek Orthodox Church in Redondo Beach, CA, on Thursday, February 6th, at 6:00 p.m. The funeral service will follow on Friday, February 7th, at 11:00 a.m., with the Makaria directly after in the Saint Katherine’s community center. Internment will take place at Green Hills Memorial Park in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA at 2:00 p.m.
May Bill’s memory be eternal and his love continue to grow in the hearts of all who knew him.