Mr. Konstantinos Bottis

Obituary

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Konstantinos (Kostas) Bottis, at the age of 93.

Kostas was born on June 12, 1933, in Agios Konstantinos, Tripoli, Greece, to Andreas Bottis and Angeliki Kagianni. He began working at just 12 years old to help support his family. In 1966, he came to Canada in search of a better life and greater opportunities. He married his beloved wife, Konstantina (Tina), in 1967, and together they built a life and raised their family in Toronto.

Kostas worked for more than 30 years as a line service worker at Cadbury Chocolate and was the proud owner of St. John's Variety for 38 years. He and Konstantina became beloved fixtures in the neighbourhood, watching generations of local children grow up. Kostas was known for his gentle nature, kindness, and dedication, always making sure everyone had what they needed. He was especially fond of the neighbourhood children and always handed out giant chocolate bars on Halloween.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Kostas and Konstantina continued to keep the store open for the community. Their dedication was featured by CBC after residents covered the store windows with messages and photos expressing their gratitude and support. When the store finally closed after 38 years, the neighbourhood was saddened, but its legacy lived on as the space was transformed into a coffee shop and pantry, remaining an enduring part of the community Kostas helped build.

Family was always at the centre of Kostas's life. He worked tirelessly to provide for those he loved and was a gentle, calm, and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was also a man of faith who remained closely connected to his Greek roots. He loved Greek music, films, and food.  He had a lifelong appreciation for the arts, and enjoyed cycling.

Kostas will be deeply missed by his wife of 59 years, Konstantina; his son, Andre Bottis, and daughter-in-law, Paulette Bottis; his daughter, Angela Bottis, and son-in-law, Ali Kashanizadeh; his grandchildren, Dean Bottis and Layla Kashanizadeh; and his extended family, friends, neighbours, and the many people whose lives he touched.

Kostas came to Canada looking for a better life. Through hard work, perseverance, and kindness, he built a family, a business, and a community that loved him. He was a good man who gave so much to the people around him and will be remembered with great love.

May his memory be eternal.

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