Lela Kilavos Platt, formerly of Valparaiso, IN, passed away on October 5, 2024, in Fishers, IN at the age of 97. She was born in Chicago, IL on October 31, 1926, the second of 4 children born to Tom and Kondilo (Verdos) Kilavos. Her brothers, Nick, John, and George Kilavos, all preceded her in death. Her family moved to Valparaiso in 1942 during her high school years. She was a midyear graduate in January 1945 from Valparaiso High School. Working as a waitress in her Uncle’s restaurant, Lela paid her own way through Valparaiso University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Business and Spanish in January of 1950. She then went on to spend three summers at Ball State University where she earned a Master of Arts in Education, graduating in the Spring of 1956. She taught typing, shorthand, and Spanish at several schools in the state before marrying Robert Platt in 1958. Lela spent her early married years raising their 3 children, who survive: Nicki Platt of Fishers, IN, Christopher Platt of St. Charles, IL, and Andrea Platt (Jennifer Barnes) of Pittsboro, IN. Also surviving are 2 grandchildren: Irina Platt and Dylan Platt.
After raising their family, Lela went back to teaching Spanish at Washington Township High School in Valparaiso. During her life, Lela enjoyed shopping, cultivating houseplants, caring for many wonderful cats and fish, traveling and cruising all over the world, reading, and enjoying time with family and friends. She and her husband spent many winters at their condo in Ft. Myers Beach, FL. before he passed in 2015. Lela moved to the Indianapolis area in 2016 to be closer to her daughters.
Visitation will be on Friday, October 18, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Moeller Funeral Home, 104 Roosevelt Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383, with a Trisagion Service beginning at 4:30 p.m. Funeral will be on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Iakovos Greek Orthodox Church, 36 W 700 N, Valparaiso, IN 46385, with Rev. James Greanias officiating. Interment at Graceland Cemetery will follow. Donations can be made to CatNap from the Heart (catnapfromtheheart.org) or The American Heart Association (www.heart.org).
An additional Celebration of Life service for Lela will be held on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at LifeJourney Church in Indianapolis, IN at 4:00 p.m. Address: 2950 East 55th Place, Indianapolis, IN 46220.
GUESTBOOK
Dear Platt Family, Our most sincere heartfelt condolences on the passing of your beloved mother Lela. What a beautiful obituary tribute written for your mother and so much insight into her life well lived. Thea Lela was a special lady! She was the first visitor with Nikki at the hospital when my only son Dean was born. I treasure that memory always. Thea Lela had the greatest sense of humor, sharp wit and always told it like it was. I respect the kindness Thea Lela always shown and expressed to me. We will treasure her memory. always. May she rest in peace eternal with beloved husband. -Lorri Kilavos
Lela made a big impression on everyone who met her, with a fabulous sense of humor and a huge personality. I know this is a loss to all of you. Andrea and Nicki, your love and perseverance in the great care you gave your mom is an inspiration. Every member of our family is glad we got to know Lela. She’s heading up the heavenly big Greek festival that’s going on right now! -Mike and Denise Henderson
Andrea and family, you are all in my prayers as you grieve the loss of your mom. May you find joy in your many lovely memories. -Jolynn Kuehr
