Obituary of Vasiliki Stavrakos

VASILIKI "Bessie" STAVRAKOS (née Anastasakos)

February 18, 1929 - April 24, 2024

It is with profound sadness that we announce that Vasiliki passed away peacefully on April 24, 2024.  And also, with immense gratitude and pride for the woman that she was.  Devoted wife to Dimo (Jim, deceased 2014) whose pet name was “spedzo”, the most loving mother to Cathy (Katerina), and adoring grandmother (yiayia) to her prince, Dimitri.  She will also be missed by Dimitri’s father Pierre and Danielle.  We are so blessed to have had so many years with Vasiliki and Dimo and, every day after their passing, continue to feel them right by our side.

She is survived by her sister, Georgia Sourtzi in Dafni.  Predeceased by her brothers Christo and George.  As well, she leaves behind nieces and nephews Penny, Periklis and Theodore, Panayota and Penelope, Spiro and George, and their children.

Vasiliki was the kindest of women who loved fiercely and selflessly every day of her life.  She greeted everyone with a beautiful smile.  She will be missed by many friends, many cousins and extended family around the world.  She held each and every one of them in her heart to the end.

Vasiliki was born in Dafni, a small village near Sparta, Greece and immigrated to Canada in 1955.  Nearing the end of her life, Dimo’s mother encouraged him to find a bride.  When he asked her who she would suggest, she chose Vasiliki.  Their love blossomed through written letters and Dimo joined Vasiliki in Canada in 1958 when they were married.  They worked tirelessly, together, to create a better life for themselves in Canada.  After retirement, for many years, they returned to Dafni for the winter.  Such a joy for them to be in their village, on their land, with family and friends again.

Her last few months were spent living with Cathy and Dimitri.  We are grateful for the special caregivers and neighbours who offered their loving support.  On her last day at home, she was well and happy.  We would like to express our gratitude to the paramedics and nurses and doctors at the Montfort Hospital for their kindness and care in her final few hours.

In honour of Vasiliki, who held the softest spot in her heart for those less fortunate or suffering, in lieu of flowers a donation may be made, if you so wish, to The Hellenic Community of Ottawa or a charity of your choice.

Visitation Sunday, April 28, 2024, 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm, Pinecrest Visitation Centre, 2500 Baseline Road, Ottawa.  Funeral Monday, April 29, 2024, 11:00 am, Greek Orthodox Church, 1315 Prince of Wales Drive, Ottawa.  Interment to follow, Pinecrest Cemetery.

Ας είναι αιωνία η μνήμη της.

May her memory be eternal.