KALLITSIS, Konstantinos (Kostas)

Konstantinos (Kostas/Gus) Kallitsis passed away peacefully with his family by his side October 12th, 2022 and is now in the loving arms of his wife, Basiliki (2017). He was the essence of Philotimo to his three sons: Jerry (Jane), Andy (Lisa), and John (Deborah) and the greatest Papou to his five ‘beauties’: Carolynn (Brandon), Victoria (Brian), Sophia, Grace, Christina, and his grandson Sean. He was also blessed with one adorable great-grandson, Bennett.

At Heaven’s Gate, Kostas will be greeted by his loving family: his parents, Kyriakos & Angeliki and his siblings Thomas (Evdoxia), Nikos (Vasiliki), and Peter. Kostas is survived by his dearly loved sister, Sofia (Lambros), his sisters-in-law Niki and Maria (Jim), and his brothers-in-law Johnny and Jerry, and his many nieces and nephews.

Kostas was born in Kastoria, Greece on August 15th, 1929. Even at a youthful age, he was well respected and fearless. During the Greek Civil War, Kostas battled on the front line as a radio informant teaching himself Morse Code. In his overwhelming determination for a better life, Kostas came to Canada in 1955 with his soon-to-be wife, Basiliki. Eating and drinking in celebration of family and friends was centre-most to their 60 years of marriage.

Kostas was an astute businessperson wise beyond his years of actual schooling. He successfully co-partnered Guelph Fashion Furs for 25+ years with his brother-in-law Jim.

Although 49 Balmoral Drive has not been ‘home’ these past few years, it will always hold special memories of Greek coffee & pastries, lamb chops on the BBQ, Greek music playing on the radio, and plenty of newspapers to peruse.

By all appearances, Kostas had a rather gruff exterior but it housed the kindest of hearts. His heart and his home were always open to those needing a helping hand - both near and afar.

Kostas enjoyed life and lived it well… travelling many times to Las Vegas, southern climates, and his beloved birthplace. No dance floor was left untouched as Kostas loved to dance. It was captivating to watch him glide his partner across the dance floor.

Family was Kostas’ greatest joy and he believed that, above all, family should stick together - ‘oikogéneia kolláei mazí’. His sons continue to uphold that same conviction. Our family has lost another major branch of the Kallitsis Family tree; however, our sturdy roots and our beautiful memories remain.

Frank Sinatra’s song My Way perfectly defines how Kostas lived his life… he “did what he had to do and saw it through”… he “faced it all and stood tall”. Celebrate Kostas’ life with us Saturday, October 15th 1 - 4 p.m. at Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon Street. Funeral Services to be held Monday, October 17th at 11 a.m., Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon Street, Guelph.

There are few words in English or in Greek that suitably express our gratitude for the angelic hands that fed, bathed, and clothed Kostas these past five years of his life. Bless your caring hearts. Donations to St. Joseph’s Health Centre Guelph would be very much appreciated by the family.

gilbertmacintyreandson.com