Theofanis Simantiris

If someone should ask for me,

Tell ‘em heaven is where I’ll be.

I’ve finished all my life’s chores,

And now I fish on heaven’s shores.

The view is grand and the fishing’s great,

But I yearn for you as I wait.

I’ll save a spot on the river’s bend,

For all those, I call family and friend.

But for now, head out to sea

And make a cast in memory,

To all the good times that you had,

With me—your friend, your grandpa…your dad.

And if the fish no longer bite

Or seem no longer worth the fight,

Because it’s me that you are missin’,

Don’t worry - be glad – I’ve only gone fishin’.

~ David Ritter

With great sorrow and profound love, we announce the passing of Theo, a man who lived a life defined by kindness, generosity, and devotion to family. Born in Athens, Greece, in 1945, he carried the values of his homeland with him wherever he went. He spent his childhood summers in Merona, Crete and learned the value of family and the simple joys in life. After serving in the Air Force as a teenager, he moved to Canada in 1967, embracing a new life with unwavering resilience.

In 1973, he married the love of his life, Rose, and together they built a home filled with love and warmth for 51 years. His greatest pride was his family—his beloved wife, his daughter Arita, and his granddaughters, Alexandra and Aliki, all of whom he adored beyond measure. The loss of his son was a tragedy he carried with him, but he found joy in watching his daughter and granddaughters grow into strong women, celebrating their achievements, and seeing his nieces and nephews flourish into adulthood. Every moment spent with them brought him immeasurable happiness.

An exceptional cook, Theo showed his love through food. He could always be found at the BBQ preparing his signature dishes— “happy” chicken, lamb chops, pork and chicken souvlaki, and lamb on a spit. No one ever left his home hungry, and he took great joy in feeding those he loved. His dogs were no exception as he treated them like family, ensuring they ate as well as any human—if not better. Whether walking, travelling, or going to bed, his dogs were always by his side. He firmly believed that no one could love them as deeply as he did, often saying he was the only one who “knew how to love them right.”

A true outdoorsman, Theo was happiest by the water. His favourite pastime was fishing and walking the river, although he also enjoyed lake fishing from his boat. He tied his own flies at home and delighted in sharing them with fellow anglers. Practicing catch and release, he found peace in nature, a place where he could reflect and appreciate life’s simple joys.

His adventurous spirit led him to travel extensively, although the Mediterranean held a special place in his heart. He embraced cultures from around the world, forming connections and adopting many into his “extended family.” He believed deeply in uplifting others, celebrating their successes as if they were his own.

He truly was a selfless and compassionate man who lived a life of generosity and service. His dedication to preserving history earned him a Heritage Award and an Award of Merit in North Vancouver for his restoration of the Paine Residence, a testament to his respect for craftsmanship and community.

Theo was preceded in death by his son, Constantine (Costa), his nephew, Alexander, and his sister, Irini. Though his absence leaves an unfillable void, his family takes comfort in knowing he is reunited with them once again. He is survived by the love of his life, Rose; his devoted daughter, Arita; and his cherished granddaughters, Alexandra and Aliki. His legacy of love, kindness, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

May his memory be eternal.

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In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you consider donating to the BC Cancer Foundation in Theo's name.