It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Efstathios (Steve) Xanthopoulos on August 19, 2024, at the age of 69. Born March 24, 1955, in Kokkinohoma, Greece, Steve was a man whose life was marked by love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to his family. He was truly larger than life in so many ways. You knew when he entered a room. His booming voice was impossible to silence.

Steve’s roots trace back to Trapezounta, Pontos, a region along the Black Sea, rich in history and tradition. These origins profoundly influenced his values and worldview. At the age of fifteen, Steve embarked on a courageous journey to Toronto, Canada, where he sought new opportunities and a better life. It was here that he met and married the love of his life, Soraya, in 1979. Together, they built a beautiful family and a loving home in Scarborough, Ontario, where they raised their four children.

A man of many talents, Steve was an accomplished martial artist, attaining the rank of second-degree black belt in Chinese Kung Fu and opening his own school. He was a part-time actor who appeared in television and print. He had a talent for languages, and he spoke English, Greek, Pontian, Italian, and Turkish fluently. He was proud of his Sicilian background. He was a musician who loved to play the Pontic lyra. He had a remarkable grasp of comedic timing and was usually the life of any party he attended. He was a Freemason and dedicated his time to raising money for several charities. He was a businessman and started Eagleman Construction which employed many family members and friends.

Steve’s proudest accomplishment was the erection of a monument in Toronto, honoring the lives and contributions of Hellenes of Pontic origin. This monument, located at the former town hall of East York, stands as a testament to his vision and passion for promoting the values of freedom, democracy, and human rights. It serves as a reminder of the importance of learning from the past to build a better future.

Steve leaves behind his beloved wife Soraya, their four cherished children (Savvas, Efrosini, Ourania, Harry), children-in-law Stavros, Andrea and Meaghan, and his treasured grandchildren Petrina, Sofia, Alexios, Stathi, Efstathios and Sophie.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund, in honor of his lifelong dedication to helping others.