VAMVAKITIS, Eleftheria 'Effe' (Damianakos) - It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce that Eleftheria passed peacefully on Thursday April 22, 2021.
Loving wife of Pavlos (Paul) Vamvakitis, beloved mother of Georgia (Gina) and Panagiota (Patty), and cherished grandmother of Despina and Michael.
Sister of Helen Damianakos, Voula (Koutakos), Paraskevi (Grivas), Georgia (Papadoliakos), and her late brothers Nick, Konstantinos, and John Damianakos, and aunt to many nieces and nephews.
Eleftheria was predeceased by her parents Vasilios Damianakos and Panagiota Gianakos.
Eleftheria was the youngest of 8 children. Born on the 25th of March, 1943, in the village of Vasilaki, Greece. Her name translates to Freedom, and her incredible strength, optimism, and determination model the imagery of this most significant day of Greek independence.
She came to Canada at 18, and lived in Ottawa where she helped with the care of her nephews while her sisters worked. Eleftheria moved to Toronto and in 1972 married her loving husband, Pavlos, with whom she shared 49 years of marriage.
Her selfless nature and tireless desire to make everything better for others was one of her greatest strengths. Her hope to continue to be there for those she loved, fuelled her optimism and fighting spirit in the face of a palliative cancer diagnosis.
She was a truly rare individual, and taught us to follow her incredible example. She will live on in our hearts and our many memories.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to: Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Canadian Cancer Society, Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church or to a charity of your choice.
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