Obituary of Gus Tourgelis

Tourgelis: Konstantinos “Gus”

 

Kosta (Gus) Passed away suddenly at home on Tuesday May 10, 2022 at the age of 76.

 

Gus will be sadly missed by his wife Tina, his son George and the Vavassis, Giannopoulos, Mitzelos, Nykyforuk and Raptakis families. A private family funeral service will be held. 

 

As expressions of sympathy donations

made to the Canadian Diabetes Association would be appreciated by the family.

 

Philotimo is a word that only exists in the Greek language. The literal translation is friend of honour - but its real meaning is so much more.

 

It is about the love of honour, 

pride in oneself, 

pride in family, 

pride in community.

 

Philotimo is about sacrifice,

It is about pride, and passion.

It is about the love of knowledge, family, friends and country. 

 

Philotimo is the spirit of doing what one thinks is right and what is honourable, even if others do not agree or understand. 

 

It is the perfect word to sum up the best of the Greek character - and the character of Kosta.

 

Kosta was born in Korinthos, Greece. Before coming to Canada, he served in the Greek Navy - the Navy gave him his education, many lifelong friends, and his passion for Greece.

 

Kosta spent many years in Canada - he lived in Alberta, Toronto, and eventually settled in Gananoque. He was proud, and cared deeply about those he loved - including his son George, his wife Tina, her kids, and her grandchildren.

 

Kosta will be remembered for his time spent in the garden, at the kitchen table, and in his seat on the front porch. 

 

He will be remembered for his humour. Whether you understood what he was talking about or not, you couldn’t help but laugh. 

 

In the long stories Kosta told over and over there was always a lesson or two about what was really important to him - being happy, enjoying life, and doing what you believe is right.

 

He was a friend to everyone he met, and his presence will be missed by all.