Tragiani "Gina" Nikolaou

May 10, 1935 – July 15, 2026

The Announcement

Tragiani “Gina” Nikolaou, aged 91, passed away surrounded by her loving family on July 15, 2026, after facing over two decades of illness with remarkable strength and grace.

Life and Legacy

Born on May 10, 1935, in (Opsirina) Ethniko, Florina, Greece, Trajanka was the daughter of the late Sava and Stavre Dimitriadis. In her youth, she was an exceptionally talented seamstress who generously shared her craft, teaching many young girls in Greece how to sew. Gina later made the courageous journey to Canada with her young family, building a vibrant life first in Hamilton, Ontario, and later in Scarborough, Ontario.

Gina was a woman of extraordinary strength, immense resilience and unwavering optimism. An avid gardener, she found great joy in nurturing life and beauty around her. Many times she would wake at 5:00 in the morning to pour her love into her baking, famously making excellent, memorable, and delicious zelnik (vialnik). She lovingly passed these treasured recipes down to her children and grandchildren, who continue to make and enjoy them today. Gina was a kind, loving, and extremely hardworking woman who was never idle, carrying her industrious spirit with her every day, including during her time at the nursing home. Through her warmth and positive outlook, she inspired countless people throughout her life and reminded those around her of the enduring power of love and family.

Throughout her various health challenges, including three years of dialysis, she never pitied herself; instead, she lived with profound empathy, always maintaining the perspective that someone else was facing a harder battle. All who met Gina loved her kindness, warmth, and unshakeable positive spirit.

Family Ties

Gina was the beloved wife of Paul Nikolaou. She is survived by her loving children: Sophie Nikolaou, George (Linda) Nikolaou, and Meri (Rob) Jobe. Gina, known as “Baba (Babi),” leaves behind a proud legacy through her grandchildren: Alex Nikolaou, Diana Nikolaou, Alexander (Bella) Jobe, Ryan Jobe (fiancé Stacy), and Tyler Jobe, as well as her adoring great-grandchild, Clover Gina Jobe. Her greatest joy in life was caring for her grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

She is also survived by her dear brother Simeon (Maria) Dimitriadis (Australia), her sister Kotsa (Nick) Kasmetis, and many cousins, nephews, and nieces whom she absolutely adored across Canada and Australia. Gina was predeceased by her parents and her beloved sister, Vasa (Mimi) Taxopoulos and their late son George.

More than anything, Gina will be remembered for the example she set: a life lived with quiet strength, humility, generosity, and unconditional love, always placing family first. She leaves behind not only cherished memories, but also values that will continue to guide her family for generations.

A Note of Gratitude

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to Lucy, Gina's dedicated caregiver at home prior to her transition to long-term care, as well as to the staff at Trilogy Long-Term Care. They also wish to thank the staff at the Dialysis Unit and all the caring, kind, and compassionate nurses at the Palliative Unit at Scarborough General Hospital. Gina always made sure to thank everyone who looked after her, and her family remains incredibly grateful for the compassion and kindness shown by all her caregivers.


Service Details

Family and friends are invited to gather at the Pine Hills Cemetery and Funeral Centre (625 Birchmount Rd, Scarborough, ON) for a viewing on Friday, July 24, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

The funeral service will be held directly in the centre chapel at 11:00 AM, followed immediately by the interment at Pine Hills Cemetery.