Voula Karambelas

Obituary

Voula was born Stavroula Kapernaros on March 3, 1936 in Paleovrisi Lakonias, Greece. She spent her early years helping her family with their many orchards of olives, figs, and fruit as well as tending to a variety of farm animals.

In 1956, she met and married Artemis Karambelas and they moved to Athens, where they raised 2 children-Areti (Rita) and George. Life was difficult for the family but Voula was an anchor keeping the home running and caring for her children, mother-in-law and husband. In 1969, seeking a better life, the Karambelas family immigrated to Portland, Oregon. There, they had their 3rdchild, Merie.

Voula worked as a successful seamstress for White Stag and Nordstrom, flourishing in her work because of her strong work ethic and natural talents. Many commented on how dedicated and kind she was. Outside of her work, she was heavily involved in the church community, volunteering in various organizations like the Philoptohos group and Daughters of Penelope. She was proud of her heritage and shared it with the community by volunteering at events and festivals; her favorite being the Greek Festival at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral.

Everyone remembers Voula for her friendly, welcoming smile and warm hospitality. She loved gardening, cooking, and embroidery, as well as spending time with her grandkids. She’s survived by her children and their spouses: Rita and George; George and Mari Faye; and Merie and Craig, and her grandchildren: Stacey, Michael, Rachel, Julia and Benjamin.

She’s also survived by her siblings – Sotiri (Steve), Niki, Niko and Kaliopi and their families.

Always an advocate for others, Voula loved children especially the children of Camp Agape (Kids ‘n Cancer). So, in lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to Camp Agape through Holly Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral and the Philoptohos group.