SALEM - Maria "Marika" (Kokaliaris) Kouris (88) of Salem, MA passed away on Friday October 8, 2021 peacefully at home in Salem with family by her side. Born in Lehena, Hleia, Greece, Maria was the daughter of the late Georgios P. Kokaliaris and Efrosini A. Kokaliaris.

Marika Kokaliaris was married to her beloved, the late Haralambos G. Kouris, her husband for 54 years, in May, 1965. Shortly after getting married, they both immigrated to Montreal, Quebec, Canada.  In 1970, the family moved to Salem, MA to be closer to family and friends.

Marika devoted her life to her family and friends.  She was an exceptional lady of strong faith, full of love and kindness, who found pleasure in the simple things in life.  She loved to bake, cook and host gatherings for her family, friends, and anyone who was endearing to her.  She was full of empathy and compassion, always there to listen and offer her encouragement and support to her family and those around her; leading by example, never hesitating to offer her wit and a proverbial quote.  She walked through life happy, always smiling, and with a contagious laughter.  She was the most loving mother, wife, grandmother, and friend. Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren.  She will be truly missed by all who knew her.

Marika leaves behind her daughter Olga Kouris of Salem, her son George Kouris and his wife Angelique of Boston; her granddaughters Evalina and Elektra Kouris of Boston.  The second of seven siblings, she leaves behind her sister Eleni (Kokaliaris) Koutsoukou, her sister Katerina (Kokaliaris) Zygogiannis, and her brother Andrea Kokaliaris; a large extended family, and many many friends. Marika is predeceased by her sister Georgia (Kokaliaris) Rozi, her brother Panagiotis Kokaliaris, and her brother Dionysios Kokaliaris.

May her memory be eternal.

ARRANGEMENTS: Visiting hours will be held on Friday October 15, 2021 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St Vasilios Greek Orthodox Church, located at 5 Paleologos St, Peabody, MA 01960. The funeral liturgy will be held following the visiting hours at 11:00 AM.  In lieu of flowers, you are invited to make a donation in her memory to St. Vasilios Greek Orthodox Church.  For more information or online guestbook, please visit www.MurphyFuneralHome.com or call 978-744-0497.