James Conistis

80, of Halifax, NS

1936-2017

Passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Saturday March 4, 2017.

Born in Nafpaktos, Greece, James was the oldest child of Georgios and Angeliki (Grapsas) Konistis. After finishing high school, he moved to Athens to obtain his electricians diploma, immigrating to Canada in 1961 where he met and married his wife Vasiliki.

James worked over 25 years at NS Armature Works as an electrician, and for many years, he owned and operated a small business with his brother in Dartmouth, NS. James believed in honesty, hard work, and integrity; values which he instilled in his children of whom he was very proud. He was a devote member of the St. George’s Greek Orthodox Church and community, and many will remember him roasting the lamb on the spit at the annual Halifax Greek Food Festival.

Upon retirement, he enjoyed his evenings with his best friend, brother-in-law Nick Eleftheros at the ‘cafenio’ in Halifax Shopping Center. James’ dream of returning to his hometown every summer came true, where he loved to sit in the back garden (avli) for hours, watering his plants, reading and talking to visitors.

His greatest joys were his grandchildren, whom he doted on; always encouraging them to do well in school and be happy! Papou, was always there at each special event in their lives.

James was predeceased by his parents and younger brother Costas-Dinos. He is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Vasiliki (Chonos) Conistis, children Angela (George) Iatrou, George (Tammy) Conistis, Costas-Dinos (Julia) Conistis, and grandchildren Alexandra, Katya, Olivia, Victoria, Dimitri, and Émilie. He is also survived by his sister Dimitra Andoniou, brothers Panayiotis (Roula) Konistis, Christoforos (Vasilki) Konistis, all of Greece.

The family would like to extend their appreciation to Dr. Daniel Rayson, VON Palliative Care team, and Closing the Gap Home care. Donations in his name may be made to the St. George’s Community.

Visitation will be held on Monday March 6, 2017 from 2-4 and 7-9 at J.A. Snow Funeral Home 339 Lacewood Dr. Funeral service will be at St. George’s Orthodox Church 38 Purcells Cove Rd, Halifax on Tuesday March 7, 2017 at 1:00 p.m.

For online condolences, please visit www.jasnowfuneralhome.com