WESTFIELD – Christos Angelo Tapases, 59, of Westfield MA passed peacefully into eternal life on March 6, 2020. He was born on May 5, 1960 in Springfield MA to the late Angelo Christos and Pauline (Koutrouba) Tapases. He was the beloved husband of 35 years to Susan (Chrisanthopoulos) Tapases, cherished father of Lyndsay Tapases Williamson and her husband Benjamin of Charlotte, NC., Athena Tapases Chretien and her husband Jonathan of West Springfield and Evonne Tapases of Westfield. He was the adored brother of Antonia and her late husband Charles Rizas; uncle to her sons, Nicholas Rizas and his wife Mariah; and Steven Rizas, his Godchild with whom he also worked. He also leaves his grandnephews Charlie and Luke. In addition he leaves his in-laws, Gus and Lorraine Chrisanthopoulos of Springfield, along with Diana and Kenneth McLean, Paula and William Scherpa, Christopher and Nina Chrisanthopoulos, as well as many additional nieces and nephews. He also leaves his longtime business partner, William Corbin, who ultimately was to come to his rescue, along with multiple dear friends, and his two grand-dogs Nittany & Millie, who brought him much joy.
He never met a stranger and had a knack for making everyone he met feel special. Chris had a zest for life and excelled at everything he tried. He grew up in Springfield and attended Classical High School, where he excelled in sports, particularly as a pitcher for the Bulldogs. He was a first degree black belt in karate, an avid golfer, and a drummer whose rhythm was overshadowed by the wide joyful smile pinned to his face with every measure. He loved music and was particularly moved by “The Boss”, Bruce Springsteen.
A graduate of American International College, he was a Certified Public Accountant and principle partner with Corbin & Tapases, PC in Agawam MA, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Westfield Bank, and a volunteer staff member of the Westfield Emergency Management team. He treasured and took great pride in his family, as they did him, generously showering his daughters with big burly bear hugs, affectionately called “daddy love hugs”—loving immeasurably as if every day was his last. Family times were of highest value to him, including Celtics games and a trip to Lambeau Field to see his Packers with one of his daughters. He also enjoyed trips to the Caribbean and to Rehoboth Beach, DE, or simply relaxing by the fire or in the parlor.
Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, March 11th from 4-7 pm from the Firtion-Adams Funeral Service, 76 Broad Street, Westfield. The funeral will be held on Thursday. He will lie in state from 10-11 am in St. George Greek Orthadox Church, 22 St. George Road in Springfield. The service will begin at 11 am and burial will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either the Jimmy Fund or Boys and Girls Club of one’s choice. firtionadams.com
