Arvanitis – Family            

SP Photo by Peter Wilson

Longtime restaurateurs the Arvanitis brothers-Chris (from left), Stavros, John and Dave-are celebrating the 25-year anniversary of the opening of Saskatoon Station Place

‘Dining’ the rails

Brothers celebrate a quarter-century at Station Place

By Peter Wilson

of The StarPhoenix

Dave Arvanitis has two children, three if you count his restaurant.

There’s no question the restaurateur loves his two daughters, but the popular Saskatoon dining spot he owns with his three brothers is also a big part of the family.

It’s been that way since Saskatoon Station Place opened its doors in 1984, a quarter- century ago this fall.

That’s not surprising considering the quiet elegance and style that permeates the popular restaurant.

High-vaulted ceilings, skylights, a grand staircase with antique oak bannisters and posts imported from New York add to the scene. Then there’s the exotic lounge that’s as impressive as you’ll find anywhere in Canada.

However, what gives the restaurant a unique appeal is its two railroad dining cars that blend into the north and east walls of the building.

Cosy and intimate, the former railcars have played host to a parade of anniversaries, romantic soirees and marriage proposals. It’s this love-story backdrop that adds fuel to the fires of culinary passion, says Arvanitis, as he helps staff prepare tables for the lunch rush.

It seems I spend every waking hour here, sometimes 12- to 14-hour days, but I find the job invigorating. I can sit anywhere in this place, in the railcars, upstairs, in the lounge. From every vantage point, I say to myself: “This is all so beautiful.”

Arvanitis is the second-oldest brother of four siblings who made their way from Greece to a new life in Saskatoon during the late 1950s.

“John came here first, then I followed in 1959 and my two younger brothers, Stavros and Chris, came a little later,” Arvanitis says. Their story is one that many immigrants can relate to. They were leaving a beautiful, warm country to start a new life on the Prairies, but in the small town they came from, a 2-hour drive east of Athens, there was little in the way of employment.

They’d also lived through the occupation of the Second World War and the devastating civil war that followed. Bad times, sighs Arvanitis.

That’s probably why the dishwashing and floor scrubbing job he took when he arrived here didn’t seem too bad, although the weather didn’t play any favours for the new Canadian.

“I arrived here in December, spending Christmas in Greece and New Year’s in Saskatoon,” he shudders.

The brothers’ dishwashing careers changed to restaurant ownership when they purchased the Shasta, a cafe in the 200 block of Second Avenue South. But the brothers had bigger dreams, when they opened the A-Four Nightclub in 1972 and brought big-time live music to Saskatoon’s downtown.

“We brought some pretty big names to our stage, including Bryan Adams. I mean, there was some rocking good times at the place.” Arvanitis laughs.

When they sold the A-Four, the brothers took the biggest leap of their lives in the early 1980s, spending almost $3 million to develop their brand-new baby, Saskatoon Station Place.

Not only was the project ambitious from a fiscal perspective, but getting two massive railcars from Winnipeg and including them- in the new structure was also an architectural challenge of major proportions.

“We brought the cars up on the rail tracks from Winnipeg and parked them at the city yards. Then we brought them over here on flatbeds and hoisted them in place with a big crane.” Arvanitis says.

Other major and costly expansions have taken place over the years as the brothers worked to maintain the support of regular customers and attract new diners.

A lounge was added, which also doubles as the location for the Station’s impressive Sunday brunch.

They also introduced their own bakery on the premises, ensuring their customers receive fresh bread daily alongside the meals chosen from the extensive menu.

While he’s a champion of the restaurant’s uniqueness, Arvanitis is especially proud of his staff, some of whom have worked there since the place opened.

“They have become like family, too. We can only be as good as the service we deliver,” he says.

So, as the band of brothers look to the next 25 years of operation, they plan on changing with the times, but continuing with the

proven track record of customer service. Dave says he and his brothers are used to putting in long stretches every day. It’s in their blood, he says.

“Many of our customers have become firm friends over the years. So, spending so much time isn’t so bad. It’s like being home, I guess.

Arvanitis, Christos

December 25, 1936 – July 25, 2021

It is with great sadness that the family of Christos Arvanitis announces his passing on Sunday, July 25, 2021, at the age of 84. Christos was born in Astros, Greece, on December 25, 1936, to Yiorgos Arvanitis and Kondilenia Pappoulias.

He served in the Greek military before immigrating to Canada in 1962. He came to Canada in search of a better life, and that he accomplished. He started as a dishwasher and worked his way from the ground up. Together with three of his brothers, they opened a number of successful businesses in Saskatoon: the Shasta restaurant, the AFOUR nightclub, and the Saskatoon Station Place restaurant.

Anyone who knew Christos would know that he was very proud to be Greek, adored good food, spoke his mind, loved his brothers, enjoyed visiting with all his friends and never missed a Greek community event that involved music and food. He could always be found in the lounge of the Station waiting for visitors to come and chat.

His nieces and nephews meant more to him than words can describe. He was very proud of their accomplishments and was sure to tell anyone who would listen all about them. He also enjoyed spending time with his grandnieces and nephews which he felt were like his own grandchildren.

Christos is survived by his brothers, John (Eleni), Dave (loanna), Dino (Matina), Stavros (Efstathia); his nieces and nephews, George (Heather), Kondilenia Lily (Douglas), Kondilenia, Falia (Kosta). Contelanea (Robert), Eleni (Jason), Yiorgos, loannis (Evaggelia), Diamandis, Kondilenia (George), George (Rhonda). Taso (Bronwyn): 27 grandnieces and nephews; 6 great- grandnieces and nephews; his godson Tasos (Tricia); and many beloved cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his parents; his brother, Vasilis; his sister-in law, Eleni, and his nephew Dimitris.

A Prayer Service will be held at Park Funeral Home, 311 Third Ave. N. at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 2, 2021. His funeral will take place in Astros, Greece, as he wanted to be buried at home. The family requires all guests attending the Prayer Service to wear masks to keep everyone in attendance safe. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation. The family wishes to send a special thank you to the staff at Stonebridge Crossing Retirement Community and St. Paul’s Hospital for their care and compassion. To share memories and condolences, visit wwwparkfuneral.ca “Obituaries-Guestbook”. Arrangements entrusted to Greg Lalach, Park. Funeral Home, 306.244.2103.

Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, July 31, 2021, p. B10

Arvanitis, John

March 12, 1929 – February 1, 2022

Born March 12, 1929, in Astros, Greece to Yiorgos Arvanitis and Kondilenia Pappoulias.

As a child his family endured hardships, World War II and the Civil War. He worked at a monastery as a laborer with his horse and mule to help the monastery with the day-to-day activities. He then served in the military Greek Elite Commando Force.

In 1957, he moved to Canada for dreams of a better life and made that journey on the Queen Elizabeth landing in Halifax. Once established in Canada, his Bride to be Eleni came to Canada in 1960. After his Marriage he worked to bring his brothers, Diamandis, Christos, and Stavros to Canada. Pappou as many called him worked a few starter jobs from the Barry Hotel, The Bessborough Hotel and Red Robin Café. He eventually started his own restaurant career with his brothers, purchasing the New Shasta Café.

Then in the early 70’s, transforming it into the A-4 Nightclub. His final legacy, was the Saskatoon Station Place Restaurant, that took him into retirement in his early 80’s.

He enjoyed having visitors at home, entertaining in his backyard, as well as looking forward to visits from friends and family at the restaurant. He loved his wine, storytelling and listening. He had a kind and gentle demeanor and always had time for everyone, especially the young people, fascinating them with his stories. Although being diagnosed as a young man in his 30’s with Macular Degeneration he went on to have a rewarding successful career.

His greatest pride and joy were his children and grandchildren. John is survived by his wife Eleni; his son George (Heather) their children Eleni and Hanna; his daughter Kondilenia “Lily” (Doug), her children Kristian and Thomas; his brothers Diamandis (loanna) and family, Kostadinos (Matina) and family and Stavros (Efstathia) and family.

John was predeceased by two brothers Christos and Vasilis.

Pappou (John) passed away peacefully at his residence on February 1, 2022, with Eleni, George and Lily at his side.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CNIB, Salvation Army or Samaritan Purse in Saskatoon.

Prayers will be held on Sunday, February 6, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. from Park Funeral Home, 311-Third Avenue North, Saskatoon. The Funeral Service will be held on Monday, February 7, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. from the Koimisis Tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church, 1020 Dufferin Avenue, Saskatoon followed by Interment at the Woodlawn Greek Cemetery.

Due to current COVID conditions, the family requests all attending John’s Services be Double Vaccinated.

A special thank you from our family to Stonebridge Crossing Retirement Community for taking care of “Commando” with exceptional care, kindness, and compassion.

To share memories and condolences, visit www.parkfuneral/ca “Obituaries-Guestbook”. Arrangements entrusted to Greg Lalach, Park Funeral Home, 306.244.2103.

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Barlas Family

Greek food services role predicated on hard work.

The uninformed come up with a variety of wacky explanations for the success of Greek people in the restaurant industry.

Some whisper about a Greek mafia. Less imaginative folks suggest they all hang together and help each other. Others believe they are somehow naturally suited to the preparation and presentation of food.

Forget the off-the-wall race and conspiracy theories. The real reason almost

40 per cent of the restaurants in Saskatoon are owned and operated by people of Greek origin is dedication, hard work and a willingness to forgo the creature comforts of a consumer society.

A typical example is the success of Manolis and Louis Barlas, who began as kitchen staff and became owners in less than five years.

“For us, the restaurant is our life,” says Manolis, who shares ownership of Mano’s Restaurant on Idylwyld with his brother Louis.

“We put lots of effort into our work. When we first opened here, we worked 16 hours a day, seven days a week for four years to get it going.

“We don’t want to be millionaires, we just want to make a good living,” he said.

Manolis Barlas emigrated to Canada in 1977 on the sponsorship of his brother- in-law Steve Arvanitis, who owns and operates the Station Place.

The Barlas brothers were born in Haradros, a village in the Pelopennesos region of Greece. Their father subsisted with a small tavern, where he served his own wine and prepared food from ingredients, he raised himself.

Manolis moved to Athens as a youth and worked at a variety of aimless occupations, including a three-year stint in the Greek army.

“The economy in Greece was very tough at the time,” he said.

“After getting out of the army I went out to face the market and it was very hard to make a living.

“People used to tell me in Greece that if I ever got a chance to go to Canada, just go, don’t hesitate, so that’s what 1 did.”

When Barlas arrived in Canada, he had little money and spoke no English.

He managed to get a job in the kitchen at Venice House on Eighth Street and started to build a life for himself.

photo by Glen Berger

Manolis and Louis Barlas, owners of Mano’s Restaurant

on Idylwyld: “The restaurant is our life.”

“When I came here, I didn’t know the language, I didn’t know the law, I didn’t know the customs, the market, nothing.

“For the first three years I had my ears open for anything. It’s incredible how much a person can learn when he wants to.

“I would finish work at two in the morning. Go home and read for three hours. I tried to learn as fast as I could because if you can’t learn the language, what can you do here?”

Because of the culture and language barrier, Barlas’s life soon settled into a spartan routine of work and sleep.

Two years after he arrived, Barlas sponsored the immigration of his younger brother Louis, who immediately started working as a dishwasher at Venice House on 33rd Street, where Manolis was then manager.

“You come here with dreams and work very hard to make them come true,” said Louis.

“Social life is always second to your goals. When you come here you have a hard time getting into the lifestyle because it is very different from Greece.

“So, you start working and your life be- comes, work, go home, get up, go to work, go home. You get used to it after a while and you don’t worry about other things. You just work to make some security by having a job and getting some money.

One thing the Barlas brothers brought with them from Greece was the independent, entrepreneurial spirit which characterizes the Greeks, although there is little outlet for it in the disorganization and bureaucracy of the Greek economy.

“Greeks always want to do better than the other guy and we like to work for ourselves,” says Manolis.

“In Greece, there is a very high number of people working for themselves.

For every 50 people, there is one business.”

In 1981 the Barlas brothers invested $30,000 of their own money and secured financing for a 70-seat operation on Idylwyld which they designed and set up themselves.

“We had the experience, but it was difficult for the money because interest rates were around 21.5 per cent when we opened,” said Manolis.

The Barlases weathered the recession, and even managed to double the restaurant’s capacity within a year of opening.

The Barlases’ formula for success has been a simple combination of hard work and attention to the customer.

“We try to offer people good food, good prices and good service, and make sure that we are here to make sure things are running smoothly,” says Louis.

“We also like to stay on top of things. We don’t like to have the place run down. We like to feel comfortable here ourselves because we spend more time here than anybody else.”

“You also have to put the time and effort into it,” says Manolis. “You can’t treat it like a nine-to-five job or get someone else to run it while you go to Hawaii for holidays.

“Our busiest times are weekends and holidays, when everyone else is out having a good time.”

The Barlas brothers say they get a lot of satisfaction from pleasing their customers.

They are currently adding 40 seats at Mano’s, and plan to open a second location when the timing is right.

Since opening Mano’s, they have also brought another brother and their father to Canada.

“It doesn’t matter what (how much money) you make; it’s what your plans are that counts,” says Manolis. “If I lost everything today, I would be able to start something up again because I have the right attitude.”

Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, January 17, 1987, p. 78 – 79.

Barlas, Anastasios (Tasos)

1921 – 1997

To our sadness and loss. Anastasios (Tasos) Barlas passed away, with his family at his bedside on December 21, 1997, after a courageous battle with cancer. His surviving relatives are his loving wife. Angeliki; and his children, Manolis. Effie, Louis and Bill.

He is graced with nine grandchildren. Manolis and his wife Patti have a daughter Angela (Angeliki) and a son Anastasios (Tasos). Effie and her husband Stavros have a daughter Kondilenia and two sons George and Anastasios (Tasos). Louis and his wife Anna have a son Anastasios (Tasos) and a daughter Angeliki. Bill and his wife Tasia have two daughters Angeliki and Alexandra.

He is survived by his sisters. Eleni and Panayiota. He was predeceased by his brothers Nicko, Yiannis and Panayioti: as well as his parents, Manolis and Efstathia.

Anastasios Barlas was born June 5, 1921, in Haradros, Greece. He served his country with pride in the Civil War between 1945-1949. He was married to Angeliki Tsiakalakis on April 30. 1951, celebrating a double wedding with Angeliki’s brother George. He took over his family farm consisting of three hundred olive trees and approximately ten acres of land for seeding.

Life had its share of difficulties, with all labor accomplished manually. His challenging life graced him with a compassionate heart, a strong character and lively spirit. This strong character enabled him to guide his children, from near and far, down the right path. With trust and faith in his children through the years, his family has returned him much pride and pleasure.

In hope of a better future the family slowly immigrated to Canada between 1976-1983. The unification of his family in their new country meant a lot to Anastasios. He joined his children in Canada to retire but very soon realized that he wanted to be with his sons at their restaurants and continued to work very hard. His curiosity and interest kept him busy all through his life creating and inventing.

His biggest passion was gardening both for survival and for his free time. You could always find him nursing his fruit trees and tending to his vegetable garden his lack of material wealth never affected him. he knew what true wealth his children and nature were. He has left us with a wealth of warm feelings and the riches inside-the greatest gifts, thank you. His nine grandchildren brought him special joy up to his last hours, he will be missed by all.

“We love you Papou”

He shared a loving and peaceful relationship with his wife that grew stronger and stronger over their 46 years together.

A Prayer Service will be held at Saskatoon Funeral Home (4th Ave. and 25th St.) at 7:00 pm Tuesday evening. December 23rd officiated by Rev. Fr. John Nikolaou. The Funeral Service, and interment will take place in his hometown of Haradros. Greece at the Prohetis Ilias Church on Saturday, December 27, 1997. The family extends a special thanks to Dr. Skarsgard for his caring. and the staff at Palliative Care at St. Paul’s Hospital. In lieu of flowers memorial donations made to the Canadian Cancer Society (438) 2nd Ave. N. Saskatoon, SK, S7K 2C3) would be appreciated by the family.

You’re a special father… For always seeing the best in me. For all the things You’ve helped me be. For all the thoughtful Things you do.

There is no father. Quite like you.

Thanks Patera

Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, December 23, 1997, p. 25.

Barlas, Patti-Lynn

1960 – 2003

Obituary/biography is not available.

Barlas, Angeliki

1925 – 2013

It is with profound sadness and loss that we announce the passing of our dear mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother Angeliki Barlas, with her family at her bedside, on February 4th, 2013. Angeliki is predeceased by her spouse Anastasios Barlas who passed away in 1997. She is survived by her children, Manolis (Genevieve) and his children Angeliki, Anastasios, Emily and Mac; Effie (Stavros) Arvanitis and her children Kondilenia (George), George (Rhonda) and Anastasios; Louis and his children Anastasios and Angeliki and their mother, Anna; Vasilis (Bill) [Tasia (Ann)] and his children Angeliki and Alexandra; and three great-grandchildren Angeliki, Efstathia and Nikolas. She will also be missed by numerous family and friends both in Canada and in Greece.

Angeliki was born on October 2nd, 1925, in Haradros, Arkadias, a small village in Greece. Throughout her life, she was a strong, beautiful and vibrant woman and was admired by many people. She was raised during World War II at a time of poverty and hardships, and throughout this difficult time, she was of great help and guidance for many people in her village. Angeliki acted as a nurse, caring for the sick and elderly in her town, even though she had very minimal education. She would be asked to deliver care daily, from one end of the village to the other, and she would never say no, regardless of how busy she was. Angeliki was married to Anastasios Barlas on April 30, 1951, celebrating a double wedding with her brother, George. Their love for family was of utmost importance to them and shortly after, God blessed them with four children. Raising their family in Greece and working on their farm was filled with adversities and this led their children to immigrate to Canada for a better life. Angeliki and her husband soon followed, having their minds set on moving to Canada to be with their children, and did so on March 26th, 1983. When asked about her choice to move to Canada, Angeliki responded with, “all of God’s gifts are here” – she had no regrets.

She was a caring and loving mother and grandmother, and her family always took precedence over everything. She always enjoyed sharing stories of her past, and about her life in Greece to her grandchildren. Angeliki also appreciated the outdoors, admiring others’ flowers and gardens on her frequent walks. She had a steadfast belief in her Orthodox religion and took pleasure in attending church as often as she could.

During her short illness, Angeliki looked forward to seeing her loved ones, especially her grandchildren, ensuring that they were doing well. The love she had for her family that radiated from deep within her heart will continuously thrive with every passing day. Our family would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those who provided Angeliki with compassionate care despite the language barriers; Drs. Goluboff, Meguro, Li and Gimon, and the nurses and staff at Stensrud Lodge, especially Rahel, with whom she shared a special bond. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Brain Tumour Foundation.

A Prayer Service will be held at Saskatoon Funeral Home on Thursday, February 7th at 7:00 pm, officiated by Rev. Fr. George Tolias. The funeral service will take place at Koimisis Tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church (1020 Dufferin Avenue) on Saturday, February 9th at 11:00 am. A funeral service and interment will take place in her hometown of Haradros, Greece at the Prophetis Ilias Church. Condolences may be sent to mailto:mail@saskatoonfuneralhome.com

I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love. Tha eise panta stin kardia mas, Giagia.

Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, February 7, 2013

Barlas, Emmanouel (Manolis)

1952 – 2022

Devoted family man, entrepreneur and pillar of the community, Emmanouel (Manolis) Anastasios Barlas leaves behind a grieving family and an eternal legacy. Manolis passed away peacefully on July 14, 2022, at the age of 70 at his home after courageously confronting an aggressive cancer. He was surrounded by loved ones who will honour his legacy by continuing to build on the foundation he left for his family.

Manolis will be lovingly remembered by his adoring wife Genevieve (Davio) Barlas; his children: Angela Barlas, Anastasios (Caitlin) Barlas, Emily Barlas and Mac (Jelena Mlinarevic) Barlas; his grandchildren: Emmanouel and Amelia; his siblings: Efstathia (Stavros) Arvanitis, Ilias (Sonya Jan) Barlas and Vasilis (Tasia) Barlas as well as many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. Manolis was predeceased by his father, Anastasios Emmanouel Barlas, his mother, Angeliki (Tsakalakis) Barlas, and his late wife and mother of Anastasios and Angela, Paƫti-Lynn (Rossmo) Barlas.

Manolis was born on February 12, 1952, in the village of Haradros, Kynourias, Greece and immigrated to Saskatoon at the age of 25 in 1977. Outside of his successful career in real-estate, community involvement and of course Manos Restaurant, Manolis was a devoted husband, father, Pappou, brother and Theio. Manolis took great pride in his Greek culture, his village spirit, his gift for entertaining guests in his own home and at Manos, his elegant style, his businesses, and most of all, his marriage, and his family.

Source: Saskatoon Funeral Home

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Geatros (William) Family

Bill & Effie Geatros

THE RITZ BLOCK OWNERS, FROM 1931-1985

FORMERLY 118 21ST STE

Hailing from Greece, Bill + Effie grew their roots in Downtown Saskatoon Owners of the Ritz Block, they also operated the Ritz Hotel and Café, and a post-prohibition parlour – the Apollo Room. Both were legendary mentors to Greek-community entrepreneurs. Bill’s award-winning shot earned him the title of Saskatoon’s Official Pigeon Exterminator, and Effie’s colourful seeds + cuttings bloomed in City public gardens.

OTNYXE SEPT. 2021

William Geatros and Family

Geatros, Eftyhia (Effie)

GEATROS EFTYHIA (EFFIE), died suddenly but peacefully at home on Friday, October 5th, 1984. Wife of the late William L. Geatros and mother of Helen, Diane, and Mary. She was Christian in the most profound sense, exemplified by her deep understanding and appreciation for the simple things, in her love of nature, in the way she related to people, and in the way she lived her life. She steadfastly remained true to herself and to her beliefs. It was a privilege to have known her.

Paying tribute to her are sons-in-law William Stratas (Scarborough, Ontario), Derek Fuller (Toronto, Ontar- io), and future son-in-law Jeffrey Murtagh (Toronto, Ontario); her grandchildren Michelle, Bill, Andrea, David, and Christopher, and three great-grandchildren. She will be sadly missed by her brothers and sisters: Maria Marinakos. Nick Pontikes (Chicago); Konstantine Pontikes, Sophia Foufas, Theodoti Pontikes (Greece); Peter Pontikes and Bill Pontikes (Saskatoon).

Since 1949, Effie Geatros was owner/manager of the Ritz Hotel Limited where she worked until her death. She was honored in 1973 with a Life Membership in the Hotels Association of Saskatchewan. She was a member of the Saskatoon Board of Trade, Hotels Association of Sask., the Sask. Restaurant Association and a former member of the Daughters of Penelope.

Prayers will be offered at the Saskatoon Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 9th, at 8:00 p.m. The Funeral will take place Wednesday, October 10th, at St. John’s Anglican Cathedral, 816 Spadina Crescent East starting at 3:30 p.m. Laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery. Out of respect for the passing of Effie Geatros the Ritz Hotel and Restaurant will be closed Wednesday, October 10th.

Geatros, William Leonidas

One of the best trap shoot marksmen of Western Canada, William “Bill” Geatros, 58, died at his home at 807 Lorne Avenue Sunday evening. He had been ill more than a year. Mr. Geatros was a former holder of the Saskatchewan- Manitoba trapshooting championship and a member of the five-man Saskatoon trapshooting team which won the Canadian championship several years ago. He was a member of the Saskatoon Gun Club.

To Saskatoonians generally he was probably best known as the man who was given special dispensation by the city to shoot pigeons which were a nuisance around public buildings.

In 1937 he broke 50 consecutive targets in winning the Saskatoon championship.

Mr. Geatros arrived in America before the First Great War, coming to Weyburn, where he operated a restaurant with his brother Edward, before moving to Saskatoon in 1931.

He was born at Kastri, ArcaCia, Greece. On moving to Saskatoon, he opened the Ritz Cafe, later the Ritz Hotel,

Surviving are his widow and three daughters, Helen, Rose, and Mary. James Chrones, owner of the Gem Cafe, was a nephew.

Funeral services will be held in St. John’s Cathedral at 3 o’clock Wednesday afternoon with the Park Funeral Home in charge.

Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, July 11, 1949, p. 3

Stratas nee Geatros, Diane Rose

1931 – 2007

Diane Rose Geatros was the middle daughter of William (Vasilis/Bill) Leonidas Geatros and Eftyhia (Effie) Pontikes/Geatros.   She was born in Saskatoon on December 12, 1932.

She studied hotel resort administration at the Ryerson Institute of in Toronto, where she excelled in her studies, received several scholarships, and graduated at the “top” of her graduating class.  In 1954, she returned to Saskatoon to become the manager of the Ritz Hotel and Café.

 Diane was actively involved in Saskatoon’s hospitality industry.  In 1956, she served as the secretary and regional director for the Canadian Restaurant Association in Saskatchewan.  She was also a council member of the Saskatoon Board of Trade.

Diane continued her involvement with the Ritz and the Saskatoon business community until her marriage in July 1957 to William John Stratas.  The new couple chose to live in Toronto where William was a veterinarian.  Diane continued her association with the Ritz Hotel and Café through Geatros Holdings, which consisted of Effie Geatros and her two sisters.  All three Geatros daughters had relocated to Toronto, leaving Effie alone to manage the business in Saskatoon.

In 1979, Diane was elected to the Canadian House of Commons as the Member for Scarborough Centre.   She was the first woman of Greek Canadian heritage to be elected to the Commons.  As a member of the Progressive Conservative government, she also served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State.

In 1994, Diane received a Lifetime Women’s Achievement Award from the Greek Community of Metropolitan Toronto.  In 2021, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada recognized Diane by including her in a list of “outstanding Greek Canadians”.

Diane died on May 4, 2023, at the age of 90.

At the time of her death, Diane was predeceased by her husband, William J. Stratas.  He was survived by three sons:  Willian, David, and Christopher.

Researched by Ken Pontikes, July 8, 2023

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Pontikes (Kyriakos) Family:

Kyriakos Ioannis Pontikes lived in the mountain-side village of Agios Nicholas (Kastri), Kynourias, Greece. With his first wife Panayiota, he had two children – Maria and Nicholas. Panayiota died and Kyriakos married Dimitro Doumos, with whom he had six children who survived to adulthood – Eftyhia, Constantinos, Sophia, Panayoitis (Peter), Vasillis (Bill), and Theodoti.

Eftychia, Panayiotis, and Vasillis emigrated to Saskatoon, Canada. Maria and Nicholas went to Chicago, U.S.A. and Constantinos, Sophia, and Theodoti remained in Greece.

Pontikes (Peter) Family…

 

Peter Pontikes was 19 years old in 1934 when he emigrated to Saskatoon from Kastri, the village where he was born in Greece. He came to work at the Ritz Hotel on 21st Street East, a business owned by his sister and her husband (Effie and Bill Geatros), and to earn an income that would allow him to send money to support his widowed mother and siblings in Greece. For the next twelve years, his life revolved around his work, the Geatros family, and the Greek community in Saskatoon.

In 1946, Peter married Lola Diamand, daughter of a Regina restaurateur. Peter subsequently established several businesses in Saskatoon in partnership with others: Johnny’s Lunch (on 2nd Avenue South), the Barry Café (on Twentieth Street West), and the Suburban Restaurant and Recreation Centre (on Idylwyld North). Through his business affiliations, Peter supported the Riversdale Business Association and the Community Chest. He was a member of Twin City Masonic Lodge.

Meanwhile, Peter and Lola embarked on a mission to sponsor the emigration of numerous young Greek men and women – many in their late teens — to come to Canada. They were convinced that these young people had few opportunities in post-war Greece and that coming to Canada offered a chance to pursue a better future for themselves and financial support for the families they left.

Lola became an active member of Saskatoon’s Greek community and after the birth of her children, Ken and Diane, of the wider Saskatoon community. She volunteered and provided leadership in many community and local organizations associated with her children’s school and extra-curricular activities.

Peter and Lola were actively engaged as volunteers in community events such as the Greek Pavilion at Saskatoon Folkfest. They were members of the Order of Ahepa and Daughters of Penelope (fraternal organizations serving the Greek diaspora) and were founding members, with Peter serving as the first president, of Koimisis tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church in Saskatoon. Peter and Lola instilled their values of supporting community, philanthropy, and volunteerism in their son and daughter. For example, Ken and Diane both held leadership positions in the early years of Saskatoon Folkfest.

The Pontikes Family Fund for Children and Youth was established by contributions in 1995 from Peter, Lola, Ken, and Diane. The Fund has grown in subsequent years through further contributions and through memorial tributes from friends at the time of Peter’s and Lola’s passing 2000 and 2014.
The Pontikes Family Fund reflects their interests, including the arts, immigrant-support, the natural environment, and community development. It encourages initiatives that build self-esteem, develop skills, and provide opportunities and experiences for children, youth and their families facing financial, physical, or other disadvantages.

Source: Saskatoon Community Foundation – adapted

Pontikes, Lola

The family of Lola Pontikes announces the passing of a loved and respected wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and godmother.

Lola’s death on January 17th, 2014 occurred at St. Paul’s Hospital in Saskatoon after a short illness.

Lola was born on July 16th, 1924 in Regina, where she received her schooling at Victoria School and Central Collegiate. She grew up in the ac- tive Greek community of Regina, helping her father and uncle operate their restaurant (Le Monaco on Scarth Street). She also studied violin and was a member of the Regina Symphony Orchestra.

She married Peter in 1946 and then moved to Saskatoon.  She had a special commitment to the Greek community in Saskatoon. She was a member of the Daughters of Penelope (Telemachus Chapter) and an active member of the Greek community that eventually resulted in the establishment of a Greek Orthodox parish in the city.

Peter and Lola sponsored many young Greek men and women who settled across Western Canada. She supported Peter, operating the Barry Cafe on 20th Street West and the Suburban Restaurant located north of the city’s airport.  Lola never forgot that the real support to her community came from the volunteers who worked physically and often without recognition in the kitchens and behind the scenes to make organizations successful. For every year beginning in 1980, Lola was at the Greek Pavilion at Saskatoon Folkfest, stamping and selling passports at the entrance and most recently selling desserts.

She was very supportive of her children’s and granddaughter’s activities including attending performances and competitions, fund-raising, and organizing banquets. Most recently Lola was a resident of Preston Park I Retirement Residence.

The family would like to thank the medical staff of City Hospital, Royal University Hospital and the Palliative Care Unit at St. Paul’s Hospital for their compassionate care. Lola was predeceased by her parents, Tony and Maria Diamand, by her husband Peter, and by her sister Sophia Pantel. Lola is survived by her children Ken (Darlene Bessey) of Saskatoon, Diane (Daniel Adam) of Montreal, her granddaughter Zoë Pon- tikes of Saskatoon, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren and their families in Canada, United States and Europe.

Prayers for Lola will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday January 19th at the Saskatoon Funeral Home. The funeral service will take place at 10:00 a.m. at Koimissis Tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church, 1020 Dufferin Avenue, Saskatoon, and will be con- ducted by Reverend Father George Tolias. Burial will occur at the Greek Section of Woodlawn Cemetery in Saskatoon. Floral tributes are gratefully declined.

Memorial donations may be made to the Pontikes Family Fund for Children and Youth of the Saskatoon Community Foundation (101-308 Fourth Avenue North, Saskatoon S7K 2L7) or to W2W Campaign of the Meewasin Valley Authority (402 Third Avenue South, Saskatoon S7K 2G5).

Source:  Saskatoon Funeral Home

Pontikes, Peter

The family of Peter Kyriakos Pontikes announces the passing of a loved and respected husband, father, grandfather and uncle.

Peter’s death on September 4, 2000 occurred in hospital with his wife and children at his side. This has brought him peace following a battle with Parkinson’s disease and the challenges of his advanced years.

Peter was born on August 14, 1914 in Kastri, Kynourias, Greece, where he received his schooling and worked, along with his seven brothers and sisters, to maintain the family’s small farm properties. After his father’s death and a the age of nineteen, his family decided that he could better support his mother and siblings in Greece by emigrating to America.  An older brother and sister in the United States and a sister in Canada had preceded him for the same purpose.

A family decision was made that he would join his sister and brother-in- law who operated the Ritz Hotel and Bijou theatre in Saskatoon. Together, Peter and his brother and sisters supported the family in Greece through difficult economic and political times. This included sponsoring numerous nieces and nephews, and their friends, to emigrate to Canada during the period following the Second World War and the Greek Civil War. Many families of Greek descent in Western Canada can trace their immigration as a result of the sponsorship or initial support of Peter and his wife, Lola, whom he married in 1946.

In the early 1950’s, Peter and his cousin, John Pontikes, operated Johnny’s Lunch in Second Avenue South in Saskatoon. In 1954, Peter, Peter formed a partnership with Peter Bezbes and James Kosmas to operate the Barry Café in Saskatoon. Later, this partnership would result in the construction and operation of the Suburban Restaurant, located north of the city’s airport. A recreation centre was subsequently added. Throughout his life, Peter was an active member of the community.

For over forty years, he was a member of the Twin City Masonic Lodge In his business life, he supported many community organizations and events, including the Riversdale Business Association, Pion-Era, and the Community Chest. Because of his roots, he had a special commitment to the Greek community in Saskatoon. He was a charter member o Progressive Chapter No. 3CJ of the Anglo-Hellenic Educational and Progressive Association (AHEPA). He was the first president of the organization that purchased the first church on Fifth Street East for Saskatoon’s Greek community and that eventually resulted in the establishment of a Greek Orthodox Parish in the city.

Yet, despite these leadership roles. Peter never forgot that the real support came from the volunteers who worked physically and often without recognition, in the Kitchens and behind the scenes to make the organizations and events successful. At the Hellenic Pavilion at Folkfest, Peter often took the jobs that no one wanted, but he knew had to be done.

Peter is predeceased by his father, Kyriakos, his mother, Demetro, his brothers, Kosti anc Bill Pontikes, his sisters Maria Marinakos and Effie Geatros, and by his nephews Gus Foufas and Kenneth Nicholas Pontikes. Peter is survived by his wife Lola (Diamand) Pontikes, his children Ken Pontikes (Darlene Bessey of Regina and Diane Pontikes (Daniel Adam) of Montreal, his grand-daughter Zoë Pontikes of Regina, his brother Nick Pontikes of Chicago, his sisters Sophia Foufas of Astros, Greece and Theodoti Pontikes of Kastri, Greece and his sisters-in-law Sophia Pontikes of Kastri and Dina Pontikes of Nafplio. Greece. He has numerous nephews, nieces, cousins and their families in Canada, United States and Europe.

Prayers for Peter will be held at 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 7, 2000 at the Saskatoon funeral Home. The funeral service will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 8. 2000 at Koimissis Tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox church, 1020 Dufferin Avenue, Saskatoon, conducted by Reverend Father John Nikolaou. Burial will occur at the Greek section Woodlawn Cemetery in Saskatoon. Floral Tributes are gratefully declined.

Memorial donations may be made to the Saskatoon Foundation, which manages the Pontikes fund for children and youth (101-308-4th Avenue North, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7K 2L7) or to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Source:  Saskatoon Funeral Home

Pontikes, Vasillis (Bill)

 

The death of William (Bill) Pontikes, age 74 years, occurred on August 26, 1993, at Tripolis, Greece. Surviving is his wife, Tina; his brothers and sisters; Nick Pontikes and Maria Marinakos of Chicago, Ill., Peter (Lola) Pontikes of Saskatoon, Kosti b (Sophia) Pontikes, Sophia (George) Foufas and Theothoti Pontikes living in Greece; and numerous nephews and nieces in Canada. the United States and Greece. He was predeceased by his parents, Kyriakos and Demetro; his sister, Effie Geatros; his brothers-in- law, Bill Geatros, Constantine Marinakos and John T. Pontikes; and his sister-in-law, Eleni Pontikes.

Bill was born in Kastri, Greece. He immigrated to Saskatoon in 1950 and for 34 years, worked at the Ritz Hotel and Apollo Room, where he became a friend to many customers.

Bill was a member of the Saskatoon Greek Orthodox community and the Saskatchewan Hotel Association. Following the closure of the Ritz, Bill retired and moved to Astros, Greece, where he was married and built a house with a beautiful garden that gave him great pleasure.

The Funeral Service for Bill Pontikes occurred on August 28, 1993, and he was interred near his parents in Kastri, Greece. (Memorial donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Saskatchewan, 279-3rd Avenue North, Saskatoon, SK S7K 2H8).

Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, September 1, 1993, p. 19.

Shnorhavorian, née Pontikes, Helen

1939 – 2007

Helen Shnorhavorian, 67, of San Diego was born in Kastri, Greece. She arrived in Saskatoon, Canada, in 1959 and moved to Chicago in 1964. With her husband Jack, she moved to San Diego in 1978.

Jack passed away in 1994. She is survived by her son, Misak, a third-year dental student in Los Angeles, her daughter, Dr. Margarett Shnorhavorian and son-in-law, Dr. David Horne of Seattle who are expecting their first child; brothers Kyriakos of Chicago and Theodoros of Greece, sisters Evantheia and Toula of Greece, mother Theodoti of Greece, and many nephews and nieces.

She was a compassionate and generous woman who touched the lives of many people. She was a loving and devoted wife and mother. After her husband’s passing, she made many sacrifices in helping her children achieve their educational goals. She loved children, gardening, home design, travel, and cooking. She was a devoutly religious woman of the Greek Orthodox faith. She will be greatly missed by her many relatives and friends, as well as co-workers and customers at Nordstrom, Fashion Valley.

A viewing service will be held Sunday, February 11th at 5 p.m. at St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church, 3655 Park Blvd., San Diego. Funeral services will be held Monday, February 12th at 11 a.m. at St. Spyridon with burial service to follow at El Camino Memorial Park, at 5600 Carroll Canyon Rd, San Diego. Donations may be sent to the Make-a-Wish Foundation in Helen’s name.

Source:  San Diego Union-Tribune, February 11, 2007