Nikolaos Augoustis

Nikolaos “Nick” Augoustis, Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, passed away surrounded by his family. On September 16 2026

Born on April 26 1941, in Elassona Greece, Nick entered the world during the turmoil of the Second World War as his mother Filia fled into the mountains for safety during the German invasion. From these difficult beginnings, he grew into a man defined by resilience, humor and unwavering devotion to those he loved.

The youngest of three children, Nick worked alongside his father Panayiotis, developing exceptional mechanical skill and strong work ethic. Throughout high school he became a standout athlete, competing and winning championships in decathlon. On August 12 1960, Nick represented Greece as a national flag bearer for the lighting ceremony in the Temple of Zeus in Olympia, Greece. Nick was also a star soccer goal keeper known for his strength discipline and competitive spirit.

Following this, Nick enlisted into the military. During his service, he exceled in heavy machinery and engineering with tanks and diesel mechanics. His talent and work ethic earned him an offer to stay and gain higher ranking. He chose a new path, following his sister Marianthi to Canada in the mid 60’s to build a new life and find opportunity.

In the early 70’s, Nick created a path for his beloved parents to join him in Canada ensuring that the family could be together again. Their arrival became a cornerstone of the family’s unity. Nick adored his parents and had a close bond with his father. His mother Filia in particular played a vital role in maintaining the household’s closeness, supporting her grandchildren and helping raise the next generation with love, discipline and tradition.

He then was introduced to Stefania, the love of his life. From the day they met he called her his glyka (sweetheart). Stefi was young and only just stepped foot into Canada. Her father sailed in the Navy across the globe and settled in Vancouver. Both her parents, especially his father-in-law (also Nick) was fond of him and picked up on his gentle kind and generous nature, enough to accept Nick’s desire to make Stefi his life partner. Nick not only fulfilled that but made his love for Stefi his passion. They honored each other and where always in love. Every anniversary Nick always remembered, he had flowers even on every anniversary of their first date, December 23. He took Stefi on every adventure, they were and always have been inseparable, living closely for 52 years. Even into Nick’s last days he still managed to buy flowers and gifts. He was romantic, generous, caring loyal and said he loved his wife every day until the end.

Nick took on his Canadian journey in Northern British Columbia, Kitimat working with Macmillan Bloedel. There he led the mechanical engineering teams. He played an integral role in developing custom tooling and mechanical methods that became essential to the company’s operation. He did this alongside his wife Stefi and in-laws to save and finally make the move to Vancouver.

During this time Nick and Stefi raised two Children Filia and Peter, ensuring they had every opportunity in life. Nick purchased his forever home on 12th avenue where he raised the family. He did most of the renovations himself and gave his family a place to grow. He also was a huge Hockey fan and grew to love the sport since the inception of the Vancouver Canucks. Nick followed the team with great passion. His house was directly across from the Kitsilano ice rink where he took his kids to play hockey and skate.

Nick took his kids to every sports event, he attended every hockey game and soccer game cheering passionately, especially at the referee, reminding him to “open his eyes” during the game.

An entrepreneur at heart, Nick owned mechanical service and gas stations, treating employees with respect and earning the admiration of all his customers. He loved his cars especially his Ford mercury Comet police interceptor which he once shipped to Europe and drove across the continent. He was also a gifted artist and musician, mastering the harmonica and accordion and performing coin tricks no one could ever explain.

Nick enjoyed his coffee hangouts where he shared stories, explained to you how the world worked on a single Starbucks napkin, complained about crooked politicians and conspiracy theories that inevitably have come true. When nobody was looking, he would sneak in an almond croissant. His sweet indulgence became part of his charm.

In retirement, Nick travelled to Australia when he could form close friendships and spending time with his son Peter who started a life and family in Sydney. He adored Nina, Peters wife, admiring her strength, work ethic and her loving energetic laughter that she brought to the family.

Nicks Grandchildren where the light of his later years.

Dominic ( Nikolaki) carries Nicks gentle temperament, kindness, his “everything is gonna be ok” attitude and especially his musical talent. Stephanie reflects his athleticism, drive and competitive spirit. Adrianna brought him joy with her bright loving nature.

Nick was equally devoted to Filias family, watching her raise Vaya, George and Leo. He was excited to know Vaya recently married Theo who he adored. Nick was especially proud of the loving, protective bond George and Leo share. The kids carry their papous kindness, humor and strong family values including their passion for sports and cars.

Nick had witnessed Filias journey raising her family and took on every challenge she faced and successfully raised a loyal hard working united supportive family unit. Nick managed to see the beginning of Filias new chapter in her life and journey with Mike. Nick quickly adored him and welcomed him as a son similar to his what his father-in-law felt.

This made him feel complete.

Everywhere Nick went he brought humor, kindness, optimism and gentle strength. His stories, sayings and his devotion to his family will live on.

Forever, 21… and a few days…

A Funeral Service will be held at St. George's Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 4500 Arbutus St, Vancouver, BC, on September 24, 2026, at 10:30 am.

A Committal Service will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, 3789 Royal Oak Ave, Burnaby, BC, on September 24, 2026, at 12:30 pm.