Anna Tseklenis remembered for grace, generosity

DOWNEY — Anna (Gogos) Tseklenis, beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished member of the Downey community, passed away peacefully in her home on September 12, 2026, at the age of 95.

Born on July 17, 1931, in Boston, Massachusetts, Anna was the oldest child of two children. She was a proud first‑generation Greek American whose life was shaped by faith, family, and friends.

In June of 1953, shortly after graduating from Simmons College in Boston, she married G. Harold Tseklenis. Immediately after the wedding they drove across the country to settle in Southern California. She was a dedicated wife, giving up her chosen career in the fashion industry for the travel that was mandated by Harold’s career at the Fluor Corporation. They traveled the world, living a year or more in various countries including Sweden, the Netherlands, Brazil and St. Thomas, Virgin Islands and Germany, but Downey was always home.

In May 1958 David was born. He was a bright, inquisitive child who brought new joy and interest to her life. She remained deeply involved in the Downey community, where she and Harold volunteered with and supported numerous nonprofit institutions, performing arts organizations, and art museums. Together, they generously supported the Downey Museum of Art, Downey Symphony Orchestra, Downey Civic Light Opera, and Downey Theatre, championing creativity, culture, and public access to the arts. Their steadfast advocacy left a lasting mark on the city they loved.

Longtime members of Saint George Greek Orthodox Church, Anna and Harold helped strengthen Downey’s Greek community. Anna also volunteered for many years at Downey Community Hospital and belonged to the American Association of University Women. She fondly recalled her years with the Assistance League of Downey and the enrichment and friendships it brought to her life.

Anna made others feel special simply by listening. When friends sought her advice, she paused before offering thoughtful, insightful guidance. Kind, intelligent, giving, she had a quick wit and dry sense of humor, she loved to laugh and make other people laugh. Anna had impeccable style and although her wardrobe was extensive her style came with how she carried herself with confidence and inner beauty. Together, she and Harold created a warm, welcoming home that was always open to others.

Just a few of her favorite things; going to Stox for lunch, having friends over for margaritas, chocolate dessert, and being at the ocean. She delighted in meeting new people while staying close to longtime friends. Those friends will deeply miss her and always remember the lasting impact she had on their lives.

Anna is preceded in death by her beloved husband Harold and her son, David, who passed away in February 2026. She is survived by David’s wife, Carol, and her treasured grandchildren Kris, Karrison, and Shaun, each of whom brought her immense joy and pride.

It is comforting to recall Anna’s reflections near the end of her life: she was very thankful and felt blessed, always speaking so fondly of the wonderful life growing up in a large and loving Greek family to marrying a husband who loved her deeply.

Anna, we thank you for the joy, wisdom and countless memories you shared with us.

You will always be remembered with immense love.

Funeral service is at 9:30am on Tuesday September 29, 2026, at Saint George Greek Orthodox Church, 10830 Downey Ave, Downey, CA 90241. Internment at Rose Hills Memorial Park in Whittier, CA. Makaria to follow at Saint George Hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint George Memorial Fund or the Downey Conservancy.