Pierros "Peter" Panagiotakos

Born in Gytheio, Lakonia, Greece in 1940, Peter immigrated to Canada on October 1959, where he built a new life with vision, perseverance, and heart. On July 17, 1966, he married his beloved wife, Antonia Grafakos, with whom he shared a lifetime of partnership, devotion, and joy. Together, they raised three children: Penny Carvalho (John Carvalho), Dimo Panagiotakos (Adriana Alvarez), and Konstantinos Panagiotakos (Oksana Jdankina).

A proud and loving grandfather, Peter leaves behind his cherished grandchildren Laura and Evalin Carvalho, and Ivan Pierros Panagiotakos, as well as a treasured great-grandson, Amari Morris. He is also survived by his brothers, Andy Panagiotakos, Terry Panagiotakos and Elias Panagiotakos, and many loving nephews and nieces.

Peter and his brothers, Terry and Andy, were trailblazers in Halifax’s entertainment scene. Over five decades, they created an enduring legacy with iconic venues such as Marathon Grill, The TAP, Misty Moon, The Palace, and Secretary’s Pub—each a cornerstone in the city’s vibrant social and musical history. Peter’s work ethic and welcoming nature helped shape Halifax’s nightlife, while his entrepreneurial spirit left a lasting impact on both the Greek and wider community.

In 1994, Peter, alongside his wife Antonia and son-in-law John Carvalho, acquired the Bluenose II Restaurant in downtown Halifax. With their shared passion and tireless dedication, they transformed the historic eatery into a world-renowned tourist destination, beloved by locals and visitors alike. For over two decades, the Bluenose II became a symbol of warm Maritime hospitality, Greek pride, and family-driven excellence. Peter’s vision and leadership brought new life to the restaurant and made it a fixture in Halifax’s cultural and culinary landscape.

After decades of hard work, Peter and Antonia embraced retirement with joy and gratitude. Since 1995, they returned to Greece every year, rekindling their roots in Gytheio and finding peace and happiness by the shores of Mavrovouni beach. Peter especially loved his mornings spent treading water for hours, laughing with relatives and friends, sharing stories, and simply soaking in the life he had once left behind but never stopped loving. These summers in his birthplace, surrounded by extended family and a tight-knit community, were a treasured chapter of his life — a true return home.

Deeply connected to his heritage, Peter was an active member of the Greek Community of Halifax and was held in high regard across the city for his integrity, generosity, and support of local businesses and political initiatives. He was respected not only for his professional accomplishments, but also for his character—humble, loyal, and deeply committed to family and community.

To know Peter was to feel welcomed, heard, and respected. His presence will be missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks and gratitude to the Staff of the Halifax Infirmary Unit 4.2 and to the Staff of the Palliative Care Centre of the Victoria General Hospital for their compassion and care for Peter.

Visitation will take place on Sunday, July 13, 2025 from 5:00PM to 8:00PM at JA Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive. Funeral Service will be held at St. George’s Greek Orthodox Church on Monday, July 14, 2025 at 1:00PM, located at 1146 Purcell’s Cove Rd., Halifax, Nova Scotia.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. George’s Greek Orthodox Church.