NIKLES, James  -  It is with profound sorrow that we announce the death of James Nikles, who passed away peacefully, September 13, 2023, just a few days after celebrating his 92nd birthday.

Jimmy was born in Kato Klines, Greece, on September 7, 1931.

He was the youngest of 5 children. As a young boy, Jimmy was mischievous, rambunctious and eager to make a mark in this world. He came to Canada in 1951 to start a new life and like many new Canadians of that time he arrived with only a few dollars.

Through hard work and sheer determination he created a wonderful life - from his start washing dishes at Lakeview Diner to owning several restaurants around Toronto.

He met his wife, Marion (Mitra), at a Macedonian dance and was smitten with her immediately. They were married in 1956 and went on to have four daughters. Jimmy was charming gregarious and fun-loving. He enjoyed numerous gambling trips to Las Vegas.

After retirement, Jimmy and Marion spent many happy winters with good friends in Florida. He was a larger than life character who lived his life with exuberance - he loved his smoking and drinking right to the end.

He befriended everyone he met. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Marion; their heartbroken daughters, Mary, Helen, Kathy and Sophi; and grandchildren, Ali, Justine, Leah, Nikko, Dania, Paula and Cassia; as well as great-grandchildren, Mateo, Sofia, Nolan, Emmy, Owen and Theo, who will miss him dearly.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated.

Visitation, Sunday, September 17th, 4-8 p.m. and Funeral Service, Monday, September 18th, 1 p.m., both to be held at Pine Hills Cemetery, 625 Birchmount Road.