After battling bravely through both cancer and kidney disease, James succumbed to his illnesses on August 8, 2022. He will be deeply missed by his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, sisters, nieces and nephews. Though his smile and warm embrace may no longer be with them, they are comforted knowing he is resting peacefully and reunited with his beloved wife Helen.

Born in Florina Greece on July 23rd 1939, James grew up in a loving family with his parents and three sisters. During a civil war in Greece, James and his sisters were separated from their parents, eventually becoming displaced and moved all over Eastern Europe. After 7 years of separation, the Likopulos family miraculously found each other in Toronto. They became the first family in history to be reunited from behind the Iron Curtain. A story so rare and incredible that it was covered by Time magazine.

For many years, James worked as a custodian at City Hall. After retiring, he and his wife, Helen, devoted their lives to taking care of their grandchildren and their parents.

James, also known as Jimmy to many in the community, had strong ties to the upper beaches community, where he immigrated and settled. He was known for his lush gardens and his golf green grass and you could always find him admiring both on his front porch. He would always greet friends and strangers with a nod and a big smile, even from his hospital bed.

He loved to cook for his family and make sure everyone was well fed and happy. He had a comforting way about him and always had a funny saying up his sleeve. James was the definition of a family man and though he came from rocky beginnings, he was able to rise above and raise a wonderful family full of love.