Chris Karathanasis, 55 years old of Downers Grove, IL suddenly passed away on September 5^th, 2026. Chris was truly one of a kind. Funny, loving, hardworking, caring, generous, and always a little crazy in the best possible way, Chris had an incredible ability to connect with anyone who crossed his path. He could make anyone laugh, brighten someone’s day, and turn a stranger into a friend.

Chris was the beloved son of Athanasios Karathanasis, who preceded him in death, and Christina Karathanasis. He was a devoted son who cared deeply for his parents and made sure they were always taken care of. He was the loving older brother of George Karathanasis, always taking his role as big brother seriously, protecting him and making sure he was okay, and the loving brother-in-law of Yvonne Karathanasis.

Above all, Chris’s greatest pride was his family. He was the devoted father of his one and only child, Chrissa Leonard (née Karathanasis), who would forever be Daddy’s little girl. He spoiled her, protected her, supported her, and loved her beyond measure. Not one day went by without a phone call, text, or conversation between them. He would have done absolutely anything in the world for his daughter.

Chris welcomed his son-in-law, Markeem Leonard, as the son he never had, loving and supporting him as his own. He was also the incredibly proud grandfather of Ki’Lynne Leonard and Makenzo Leonard, whom he absolutely adored. He supported everything they did, constantly sent them treats, snacks, and toys, and treasured every photograph Chrissa sent him. He printed their pictures almost immediately, filling his home with so many that it became a museum dedicated to his grandchildren.

Chris was also the heart and personality behind Hof Cleaners on Main Street in Downers Grove, a business into which he poured years of hard work, sacrifice, sweat, and love. More than a dry cleaner, his shop became a place where people stopped just to see Chris. Customers became friends, children left with pockets full of candy, and a quick drop-off could easily become a 30-minute conversation filled with stories and laughter.

After his passing, members of the community described Chris as “one of a kind,” “an amazing ambassador for Downers Grove,” and “part of the fabric” of the downtown community. One person captured him perfectly: “He started as my dry cleaner and became my friend.”

That was Chris. A devoted son, protective brother, extraordinary father, adoring grandfather, loving father-in-law and brother-in-law, hardworking businessman, and a friend to all he knew.

Chris made the world brighter simply by being himself. His laughter, craziness, generosity, enormous heart, and unconditional love will be deeply missed, but the impact he made on his family, friends, and the Downers Grove community will never be forgotten.

A visitation will be held on Friday, September 18, 2026, from 4:00pm to 8:00pm, at Cappetta’s West Suburban Funeral Home, 4920 Main St., Downers Grove, IL 60515. Funeral Services Saturday, September 19^th, 2026, at The Greek Orthodox Church of St. Demetrios, 893 N. Church Rd. Elmhurst, IL 60126, everyone is asked to please gather at the church for 10:00am. Following church services there will be a hearse procession for interment at Arlington Cemetery, Inc., Elmhurst, IL. For additional information please call 630-852-8000 or visit us at westsuburbanfh.com