Eleni "Helen" Kaffenzakis

Eleni “Helen” Kaffenzakis (née Rizos), age 82, passed away on Saturday, October 4, 2025. Born to the late Elias and Vasiliki Rizos (née Papas), Eleni lived a life full of creativity, compassion, and deep familial bonds.

She was the beloved mother of Dessie Dammrich and her husband Dave, and the cherished grandmother of Evan Dammrich and Step-son Robbie Dammrich (Megan Reifenberger) and great step-grandmother of Ellie Dammrich. Eleni was a devoted sister to Barb, Pete, Sandy, Gus, and her brother and sister in-laws, and was preceded in death by her dear siblings, Annie and Jimmy. She shared a special, close connection with each of them, and their memories remained close to her heart.

Eleni was formerly married to the late George Kaffenzakis, and though life took them on separate paths, she carried the lessons and love from that chapter with grace and maintained close ties with her ex brother-in-law Sava Kyramarios and her late ex Sister-in law Janie and their family. Her home was always open, her heart always full, and her spirit always generous. She was a fun-loving aunt to many nieces and nephews; cousin and niece to her family who reside in New York, and friend to many, and her warmth truly touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

A true artist at heart, Eleni found beauty in the everyday. She loved to draw and express herself through her art, often capturing the quiet moments that others might overlook. Her creativity was matched only by her love of cooking and affection for animals; especially her beloved cats, Teddy and Lola, who were her constant companions and a source of comfort and joy.

Eleni’s life was defined by the strength and closeness of her family. She was the glue that held generations together, the storyteller, the nurturer, and the quiet force behind countless shared meals, celebrations, and heartfelt conversations. Her legacy lives on in the love she gave, the art she created, and the family she built.

She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her.

May her memory be eternal.

In lieu of flowers memorials are appreciated to Assumption Greek Orthodox Church 1755 Des Peres Road, Town & Country, MO 63131.