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Irene Katsougiannis will be farewelled at a service in Wellington tomorrow, just over a week after she was killed in her Miramar home.
The funeral will be held at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Mount Victoria before she is interred at Makara Cemetary.
Katsougiannis, 62, was found dead in her Miramar home on Monday and the Herald understands her son, Soteri Katsougiannis, who was listed as living at the property with her in 2020, is suspected of killing her.
He died in Hong Kong the same day her body was discovered.
The police scene examination of her home has concluded and the property has been blessed, Detective Senior Sergeant Tim Leitch confirmed.
The investigation into her death is ongoing, but as the suspect has died overseas New Zealand police cannot comment on the circumstances of his death.
“The investigation will examine fully the circumstances of Irene’s death, as well as the events that led to the man’s death, and this will include liaising with relevant overseas authorities.
Hong Kong police told the Herald they do not comment on individual cases.
Irene Katsougiannis with her late husband Stefanos Katsougiannis.
An online obituary for Irene Katsougiannis said she was a “forever caring and giving mother” to her three boys - Soteri, Mihali and Leftheri - as well as her daughter-in-law Ivy, whom she “adored”.
Irene was also a treasured wife to her late husband Stefanos, who died in 2017.
Her friends have left messages of condolences, saying she will be remembered as “a quiet and beautiful soul with a mischievous laugh and a sense of humour”.
“Her infectious laughter and kind spirit will always be remembered. We wish Lefteri and Michali strength through these tough times and solace that Irinoula is at peace and resting forever with our Lord.”
Irene Katsougiannis was killed in her Miramar home.
Another family friend said they were deeply saddened to hear of her death.
“She has touched lives in a way that words cannot express. I hope your happy memories will help you through this difficult time.”
Her funeral will be held at the Greek Orthodox Church in Wellington tomorrow and in lieu of flowers, people are asked to donate to the church, or to the MusicHelps charity.
She had worked as a piano tutor at Queen Margaret College, and also coached netball in the community.
One of the messages in her obituary was from St Patrick’s School, where she used to share her love of piano with children who wished to learn.
“Her gentle kindness with the children was a joy to watch, as she shared her passion with them. Irene will be missed by us and the children here. Forever in our hearts and memory.”
The principal of Queen Margaret, Jayne-Ann Young, told the Herald she was deeply saddened at the loss.
“Queen Margaret College is saddened to learn of the passing of our very dear colleague and friend Irene Katsougiannis,” she said.
“Our thoughts are with her family. As always, we remain focused on the wellbeing of our staff, students and whānau throughout this difficult time.”
Vita Molyneux is a Wellington-based journalist who covers breaking news and stories from the capital. She has been a journalist since 2018 and joined the Herald in 2021.
