Emmanouil Kaltakis

April 18, 1929 – May 19, 2025

With deep sorrow and much love, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved father, grandfather, and brother, Emmanouil “Mano” Kaltakis, in his 96th year.

Affectionately known by family and friends as Mano, Manoli, or Manola—and lovingly called Baba and Pappou by his children and grandchildren—he lived a rich, full life marked by kindness, music, and endless stories. Mano had a calming presence and a generous heart. He was a gifted storyteller, always ready to share a joke or a memory, and enjoyed reminiscing about the past.

Born in 1929 on the island of Samos, Greece, Mano grew up in a family of talented and renowned violinists, immersed in music from an early age. He showed a natural aptitude for it, eventually mastering the piano, guitar, drums, and especially the accordion and keyboard—his signature instruments throughout his lifelong musical career.

As a child, Mano lived through the Italian and German occupations of Greece during WWII, experiences he often spoke about. Later, his time serving in the Greek army shaped many of the stories he loved to share—stories of hardship and resilience, but always delivered with optimism. No matter the challenge, Mano saw the glass as half full, a perspective that surely contributed to his long and vibrant life.

In 1962, he emigrated to North America, bringing his deep love of music with him. He traveled widely, performing for Greek communities across the continent—at bouzoukia, weddings, dances, and cultural events—earning admiration for both his talent and his warm spirit. His music was more than entertainment; it was a bridge to heritage, identity, and joy.

Mano began his North American journey in Montreal in 1962, where he reunited with his eldest brother, Kosta. After spending time in Montreal and Toronto, he sought warmer climates and experienced life in New York, Tarpon Springs, New Orleans, Houston, Los Angeles, Sacramento, and Seattle. He witnessed and navigated the racial segregation and cultural prejudices of the time, including discrimination against Greeks, yet he always spoke of those years with grace and positivity.

In 1968, he found his home in Vancouver, where he became a beloved member of the local Greek community. He was a fixture at popular venues such as the Astor Cafe, Athens West and Acropol bouzoukia, where his music brought people together and preserved Greek traditions for future generations.

In 1972, Mano married the love of his life, Katina. Together, they created a home full of love, laughter, and music, raising two devoted children, Angelo and Dora. Though his work often kept him out late into the night, Mano never missed a morning drive to school. In retirement, he continued this tradition with his grandchildren—a testament to the care and joy he brought to his family.

Mano was predeceased by his parents, his beloved wife Katina, and his brothers Kosta and Giorgo. He leaves behind his sister Danai, brother Leondios, his children Angelo (Peggy) and Dora (Niko), and his four cherished grandchildren—Katerina, Emmanuel, Emmanuel, and Meleti—who will forever remember his warmth, humour, and the melodies that filled their lives.

A life lived with purpose, passion, and deep love—may his memory be eternal.

Services

Prayers (Trisagio): Thursday, May 29 at 7:00 p.m.

Funeral: Friday, May 30 at 11:00 a.m.

St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 4500 Arbutus Street, Vancouver

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MountPleasantFuneral.com for the Kaltakis family.