It is with profound sadness that the family announces the passing of Maria Tsoukalas, our beloved Yiayia, who passed away peacefully surrounded by love and family on October 21st, 2025.

Maria lived a full and beautiful life, always with a radiant smile and a heart open to everyone she met. Born in Greece, she immigrated to Canada with nothing but her courage and determination, building a life defined by love, hard work, and generosity. At just 17, she married the love of her life, George Tsoukalas, with whom she shared an incredible 55 years of marriage. Together, they were inseparable - true partners in every sense - sharing dreams, adventures, and laughter.

Entrepreneurs at heart, Maria and George built a lifetime of memories through the restaurants they opened together - from donut shops to their cherished family diner, The Solarium, where Maria’s warmth and welcoming spirit made everyone feel at home. To the community, she was known simply as “Mama."

Maria was the proud and devoted mother of Harry and Sophie, both of whom she loved beyond measure, with both kids always lovingly debating which of them was her favourite. She was the adored grandmother of Dimitri and George, and she welcomed Dimitri's fiancé, Fara, with a warm embrace from the very start, always making her feel part of the family. She loved and protected her grandkids relentlessly, raising them as her own and teaching them to live with love and kindness.

She was the loving mother-in-law of Frank (her beloved “Frankie”). The family pets, Boomer and Jersey, were her greatest fans, especially when she’d sneak them food under the table when no one was looking.

Maria cherished her family, and we are forever grateful for her everlasting love.

Forever in our hearts, Yiayia.
Your love will continue to guide us always.