Journalist Paraskevi Katimertzi lost her battle with cancer on Thursday at the age of 65 years. She worked for many years at Greece’s daily Ta Nea and was revered for her stories on art and culture, especially archeology.

Her top-floor apartment on Spyros Merkouri Street was always full of friends, books and artworks. She lived there with her beloved companion, Meli, a small dog that she loved immensely.

Her colleagues remember her for her kindness as well as great penmanship. Marked by her generosity, especially to young colleagues, Katimertzi had traveled around the globe for work and leisure.

Despite doctors’ orders she was an avid smoker and did not quit until the end.

Born in 1950, she studied journalism and was also a registered tour guide. She spoke English, German, Spanish and French. She worked as a journalist since 1979 at Eleftheri Gnomi, Avgi and later, Ta Nea. She received the Botsis prize in 2005, four years before she retired.

Alternate Culture Minister Nikos Xinakis refered to her sensitive spirit and rich trove of articles.