John Panagos

John passed peacefully at the age of 94 at Scarborough General Hospital and was known fondly as “Bossy” to many of his friends and customers. John was born December 9, 1930 and passed on February 8, 2025. He is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years Elizabeth, or Betty as she is known. Loving father of Monica, Pat (Petra), John (Paula) and cherished grandfather to Katrina and Sophie. John will be fondly remembered by the so many people other than his family who were so lucky to have been touched by his life. John was a higher soul that immigrated to Canada in 1955 from Athens, Greece to Halifax, Nova Scotia. Shortly after that he met his wife Betty, in the hospital where they both worked. Even at that young age, John made an impression with anyone he worked for. John had a dedicated work ethic but also an air about him of knowledge. Shortly after that the young couple moved to Montreal for a short time and then onto Toronto where they made their roots. Struggling at first with a new wife and daughter John was determined to succeed. Starting by washing cars and pumping gas his determination and intelligence rose him quickly to become a licensed mechanic. Eventually, by impressing his employer a Shell rep who would become a lifelong friend, John opened his first Shell service station in 1963. Eventually ending up at the corner of Eastern and Carlaw he continued to thrive with Shell. To the point that he was not only their go to guy (shop), but they actually had to make an award for him called “The Good Guy of the Year Award.” John was not only successful at business but also became a licensed Pilot. He was a skilled and competitive sailor winning many races. Especially with his favorite boat “Windmill”. He was so good that the other sailors nicknamed him “The Crazy Greek”. John also became a 32nd Degree Mason faster than most. He was especially proud of this achievement. Among his other achievements John spoke 5 languages, played the mandolin, and was an avid theatre and opera lover. He was a historian, had a deep knowledge of geography, mythology and engineering. He also travelled Europe to increase his knowledge. Simply put, if anything caught his interest he became an expert in it. Visitation will be held at PAUL O’CONNOR FUNERAL HOME, 1939 Lawrence Ave. E. (between Warden Ave. and Pharmacy Ave.) on Tuesday, February 18th from 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. Funeral Service will be held in the Chapel on Wednesday, February 19th at 11 am. Interment Pine Hills Cemetery. If desired, donations may be made to the MS Society of Canada or the Scarborough Health Network - General Site. For further details or to place online condolences please visit pauloconnorfunerals.ca

Forever in our hearts, we love you John.