Eulogy for Sam Sianis
Delivered by Metropolitan Nathanael of Chicago
St. Basil the Great Greek Orthodox Church, Chicago
May 22, 2026
Beloved family members of Sam Sianis, esteemed clergy, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin, Alderman Jason Ervin, most honorable judges, civic and elected officials, honored guests, faithful parishioners of St. Basil Greek Orthodox Church, friends and neighbors from across our great city of Chicago, and all who gather here today:
Christ is in our midst! He is and ever shall be.
We come together this morning with sorrow in our hearts, but also with gratitude to God for the life of Sam Sianis—a husband, father, grandfather, businessman, parishioner, friend, and beloved son of Chicago.
Many people knew Sam through the Billy Goat Tavern, through Chicago sports lore, or through the famous words, “Cheezborger! Cheezborger! Cheezborger! Pepsi, no Coke! Chips, no fries!” which became part of Chicago folklore and American popular culture.
Yet behind the humor and the fame was the story of a proud Hellene and Greek immigrant who arrived in America in 1955 carrying with him faith, family values, determination, and a willingness to work tirelessly in pursuit of a better life for those he loved.
