Alice Ducas, née Zanetakos, age 89, of Chicago, passed away on July 7th, 2026.

     She was a devoted mother, cherished educator, dedicated volunteer, and beloved presence in every community she touched. Above all, Alice will be remembered for her endless warmth, sharp mind, humor, and unwavering love for her family.

She is survived by her loving children, Pericles Ducas and Ariadne (née Ducas) (Andrew) Rome.

     Alice was the dear sister of the late William (the late Thalia) Zane, the late Angei (the late George) Dimopoulos, and the late Pauline “Bae” Zanetakos. She was a devoted daughter of the late George and the late Vasiliki Zanetakos.

She is also lovingly remembered by her nieces and nephews: Lisa Zane, Billy Zane, Adrienne Dimopoulos, Christopher Dimopoulos, Jason Dimopoulos, Michael and Nancy Cardona, Alejandro Cardona and Christopher and Michelle Cardona. Her 90 year old cousin Louis Manikas, who lives in the same village where Alice’s mother was born, Agios Nikolaos, would often facetime with Alice and sing for her enjoyment.

A Life of Learning and Service

     Alice had a lifelong passion for learning and psychology. She earned her Bachelors and Masters degree at the University of Illinois and built a meaningful career in education, becoming a beloved psychologist and counselor at the Francis W. Parker School in Chicago. Colleagues and students alike admired her insight, compassion, and steady presence in shaping young lives.

     Beyond her professional work, Alice gave generously of her time to the community. She volunteered at the Hellenic Museum of Chicago, supported her faith community at St. George, and shared her voice in the St. Basil Choir, where music and fellowship brought her great joy.

A Joyful Retirement and a Unique Second Career

     In retirement, Alice embraced what she often called her “dream job”—serving as an usher for the Chicago Cubs. She became a beloved fixture to fans in her section, known not only for her warmth and kindness but also for her remarkable ability to recall detailed Chicago Cubs statistics and history.

     Her extraordinary service and spirit were honored in 2016 when the organization presented her with her very own World Series ring—a tribute to how deeply she became part of the Cubs family.

A Life Rich in Travel and Joy

     Alice also loved to travel, especially to Palm Springs, California; Tarpon Springs, Florida; and all over Greece, where she connected with family roots and created lasting memories. Her curiosity, love of people, and appreciation for life’s experiences were constant threads throughout her journey.

Legacy

     Alice Ducas leaves behind a legacy of love, education, service, and joy. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, former students, colleagues, fellow volunteers, Cubs fans, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

     Her memory will live on in the lives she shaped, the communities she strengthened, and the countless hearts she touched. The linked letter is a small glimpse of the lasting impact that Alice had on the Frances W Parker Community. Your love and support mean so much to our family.

     In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the following charities, all of which Alice championed throughout her life. Alzheimer's Association of America, Frances W. Parker School: Parker (General) Fund, or National Hellenic Museum.

Service Details

      Family and friends will meet Friday, July 10, 2026 at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 2701 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, for funeral service at 11:00am.  Interment to follow at Irving Park Cemetery.