It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Athanasios (Tom) Constand on Monday, October 28th, 2024. He passed away peacefully at home at the age of 89. Tom is survived by his wife, Maria, children Dean (Andrea), Diea (Aryiris); grandchildren Marissa (Brian), Panayiotis, and great-granddaughter Sophie.

Dad was born in Elefsina, Greece to Konstantinos and Orthodoxia Constand. He was the eldest of four siblings which included Ted (Lee), Celia (John) and Andy (Gianna).

Dad left a war torn Greece in 1951 to begin a new life in Toronto. Pier 21 in Halifax welcomed him with open arms. To a 16 year old, it seemed like paradise. From a very young age dad demonstrated a keen entrepreneurial spirit. So much so that his hard work allowed him to sponsor members of his immediate family to come to Canada. This spirit continued throughout his entire life. Like any good business man, he quickly recognized that life would be even better with a partner by his side. In 1959, he married his beloved wife, Maria. Together they created a wonderful partnership both in life and in business.

Soon after getting married, their beloved son and daughter arrived. Their family was complete. Dad and mom worked tirelessly to build a very successful restaurant business in north Toronto, the Surf N Steer. Their strong work ethic didn’t go unnoticed. A write-up in a local newspaper quickly translated to patrons lining up outside the restaurant. Dad took great joy in creating special moments for all of his patrons. How could anyone forget his delicious crepe suzettes prepared right at their table?

Family was so very important to dad. He had such close bonds with his sister-in-law Penny (George) and his late brother-in-law Peter (Georgia). He loved spending time with all of his nieces and nephews. And he never forgot to connect with his cousin Fred; and his late cousins, Celia and Jenny.
When the time came to say good-bye to their beloved Surf N Steer, dad and mom enjoyed travelling and spending time with family and friends. Greece was always in dad’s heart, and he and mom spent many summers in Glyfada.

Dad battled emphysema valiantly for many years. He never once complained, met every day with a positive outlook, and a song in his heart.

This past summer dad was surrounded by his children, grandchildren and great-granddaughter. It was a very special time for him. He was so fiercely proud of his entire family.

In his final days, his thoughts would go back to his restaurant and he would tell those by his bedside that “the staff have left, so it’s time to turn off the lights and go home”…..
Dad, it is time to rest now. You will be forever in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Lung Association are appreciated.