We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Sarkis (Sako) Gokdag on November 2, 2024, at the age of 65. He was diagnosed with cancer 7 short months ago, and he bravely battled it until his life was cut tragically short and he succumbed to the illness. He will be forever missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Salpi, his children Mihran (Janny), and Hrayr. He was a proud grandfather to Sebastian, who loved playing with his silly Dede.

Sarkis was the loving and devoted son to the late Miran and Ihsa Gokdag. He was the youngest of three brothers and will be greatly missed by Murat (Markirit), and Gulbenk Gokdag. Our family dog, Bo, misses him immensely and still stands up to the front bay window waiting for him to return home. She will keep his seat on the couch warm until they meet again. 

Sarkis learned the jewellery trade and business at the young age of 15 in Istanbul and perfected his skills after he immigrated to Canada when he was 26 years old. He opened his own business and befriended countless people who respected him tremendously as a businessman and loved him as a lifelong friend and brother. For over 20 years, Sako has been a dedicated member of the Markham Village community and the face of Exclusively Yours Jewellery, serving his loyal customers who considered him a friend. His legacy will endure through all the lives he has impacted in different ways, and his absence will be felt near and far. 

Sako played semi-professional soccer in Turkiye and continued to play here in Canada. Over the years, he developed a passion for golf and could be found on the course, 2 days a week minimum, well into the beginning of Canadian winters. He was deeply saddened when he could no longer continue his favourite pastime due to the pain from his illness. Bowling was also a favourite family pastime, where as Papa Bear, he occasionally got the highest score and wasn’t shy about letting the rest of us know it. Sako loved to travel and had hopes of seeing more of the world during his retirement years. 

His life was cut short and he left us far too early but his love and memories will be forever felt in our hearts. 

For those who wish to pay their respects, visitation, funeral, and burial details are listed below.

If desired, in lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation In Memory of Sako to the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. Please click on 'Make A Donation' at the bottom of this page or visit: https://supportthepmcf.ca/ui/PDPCelebrate/p/sgokdag