<div itemprop="description">We announce the peaceful passing of Stefanos “Steph” Voutsinas, on August 5 in Pointe Claire palliative care at the remarkable age of 88. He leaves behind a legacy of love, led by his adored wife, his pillar of strength and caregiver, of over 57 years, Nancy “Nafsika” Voutsinas, née Papanikolatos, his cherished daughters, Helen (Johan) and Paulina (Joe) Voutsinas, four precious grandchildren, Stephanya, Lukas Stefano, Liya, and Adrianna, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends whose lives were enriched by his presence. Born October 21, 1937 in his beloved village of Farsa, on the picturesque island of Kefalonia Greece, to Anthodesmi Benetatos and Savvas Voutsinas, Steph was the last surviving brother of six sons. His childhood, though marked by the tumultuous World War II occupation by Italian and Nazi forces, instilled in him a profound appreciation for freedom and kindness, often sharing stories of the liberating forces' generosity, including his first introduction and taste to Coca-Cola. The 1953 catastrophic earthquake that devastated his region and destroyed his family home was a testament to his resilience, miraculously surviving as a falling iron balcony narrowly missed him as he escaped running down the mountain side. Despite the odds, the only remaining intact building was the white village church bell tower - standing tall, a beacon of hope. Although being a top of his class ambitious student, as part of his family’s responsibility to build a better life for themselves Steph's family immigrated to Montreal over five years, and his studies were soon set aside due to growing demands of working long hours helping support the family. However his love for learning never wavered, devouring three newspapers daily with his morning coffees, sharing insightful facts, and discussing current affairs with passion. The Voutsinas brothers' journey from dishwashers and line cooks to entrepreneurs, commencing with running their innovative rotisserie chicken and Chinese restaurant in the late 50’s (with the then novel idea of providing takeout car delivery), showcased their unwavering work ethic. Later, their ventures expanded into real estate projects, restaurants, and hotels. After working nearly two decades in Miami, Nancy and Stef retired and returned to Canada, cherishing time with their beloved grandchildren. Steph's joy radiated through others' happiness, truly embodying Greek “filoxenia” with his kindness and generosity. He delighted in Nancy's cooking, enjoying it all the more when shared with friends and family. Steph’s deadpan one-liner humorous comments and clandestine requests to get him cigarettes will be deeply missed. We are grateful for his important influence in our lives and the values he espoused: simplicity, humility and above all, Family. As we say goodbye, we take comfort in knowing his spirit lives on in the hearts and minds of many friends and family. In lieu of flowers or donations we simply ask that you honor Steph's legacy by embodying his spirit of spreading kindness and generosity - merely with a gesture of paying it forward: smile at a stranger, pay someone a compliment, buy someone's coffee, lend a helping hand, or listen with compassion.</div>
