It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Christos Rigakos, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and uncle after a long and courageous battle with congestive heart failure.

Born in Gorani, Laconia, Greece, he was one of eight children in a close family. He came to Canada in 1965 from his beautiful mountain village in southern Greece to build a new life. That same year, he married our mother, Stavroula (Voula, née Panos), and together they raised three sons—Bill (Deirdre), John (Louella), and Angelo (Agnes).

He led a long and happy life. Until last year, at age 85, he remained strong, healthy, and independent. Exceptionally hardworking, he rose at 4 a.m. for many years to provide for his family. He was selfless and devoted—always there and ready to help in any way he could.

Christos took enormous pride in his garden, tending it faithfully through the spring, summer, and fall. Naturally social, he enjoyed an active life filled with many friends and daily visits to the “cafenio” (Tim Hortons), where he was always ready to chat, share stories, or debate politics. His warmth and kindness touched everyone who knew him.

He was especially proud of his six grandchildren—Stephanie, Christopher, Abby, Sofia, Noah, and Olivia—each of whom brought him tremendous joy.

He was also an uncle to many nieces and nephews in Greece and Fotini here in Toronto.

His doctors and caregivers have been absolutely amazing throughout the past year and a half, and we could not have asked for better care and support from our medical system. Many thanks to Sunnybrook Health Science Centre, espercially Dr Sherryn Roth, North York General hospital (Dr. Valerie Caraiscos), and all the people at Circle of Care

He will be greatly missed by all