GERTSAKIS, Maria (nee Opasinis). Peacefully and with family at her side, Maria left this world to join her beloved husband Stavros and cherished son Ted in the afterlife on September 9, 2023, at the age of 90.

She will be dearly missed by her devoted son Chris (Lisa), precious daughter Elsie (Robert) and loving brother Sam (Pauline). She was a treasured grandmother to Craig (Diana), Ashley, Nicole, Steven, Jamie and Josh and beloved great grandmother to Paxton and Nova.

Maria was born in Akrita, Florina, Greece on December 6, 1932. She married Stavros in 1958 and together, in 1969, embarked on a life-changing journey to Canada to pursue a better future. To that end, they realized their dream, carving out a remarkable life for their family through hard work, determination, love and support.

Maria was renowned for her cooking and green thumb, and maintained both a flower and vegetable garden into her late 80s. She loved spending time with friends, neighbours, and family—especially her grandchildren whom she adored.

Though we are grateful for the full, long, and overwhelmingly joyful life she led, Maria will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her for her quiet kindness and generosity.

She will remain forever in our hearts.

In honour of Maria’s life and legacy, a donation to a charity of your choice can be made.