George Kotsalis, 91, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
George was born in Kallidromo, Greece, and immigrated to Canada in the 1960s with the hope of building a meaningful life—a goal he certainly achieved. Settling in British Columbia and dedicating his entire career to the City of Vancouver as an Electrician, he worked hard and built a beautiful life with his late wife, Catina, and their three daughters.
Everyone who knew George describes him simply as a "good man." He lived his life with integrity, faith, hard work, and deep compassion for those around him. Whether he was handling electrical jobs, fixing things, or driving people where they needed to go, George loved to help others. He was a man of few words who found joy in life's simple pleasures: hockey games, a heaping plate of spaghetti or any good food, and time spent with family and friends.
George was also a faithful, active member of the Surrey Seventh-day Adventist Church, where he found profound purpose and connection. His family is grateful for the continuous support the church community provided George, even when he could no longer attend in person. Their visits and prayers brought him immense peace and joy as he faced the challenges of aging.
Above all, George was proud of his family. He leaves behind his daughters, Penni (Michael), Argiro (Roger), and Demetra (Dan), and his seven grandchildren, Gabriel, Olivia, Lucca, Kyra, Zoe, Neko, and Max. His greatest joy was being with his grandchildren and watching them grow. Our “Baba” and “Papou” will forever be in our hearts.
George will also be deeply missed by his large extended Greek family and many friends across Canada, Greece, and around the world. We are all better for having known George and are forever shaped by his legacy of kindness and humility.
George’s family wishes to thank the caring and capable staff at the Sunwood Retirement Residence, Fraser Health Home Care, MRH-PATH Unit and the George Derby Centre, who were all integral to keeping him safe and cared for over the past few years.
In lieu of a formal service, the family will gather for a private celebration of his life.
August 12th, 2026
Always grateful to George, along with Catina and other members of the family, for the wonderful welcome we received into the family when Demetra and Dan married in 2001. George was equally welcoming to us on our last visit to him earlier this year, even though in different circumstances. During those 25 years we have known nothing but kindness, care and love from George, and will remember him for his goodness to everyone and his delight in his family. Thank you for so much, George, and may you rest in peace, reunited with your beloved Catina.
August 12th, 2026
George’s life was fulfilled by being a husband, a father and a grandfather ( Papu). I too know the joys of seeing your children, then grandchildren, grow into their lives. This was George’s life and joy. And he was so good at it. Now he is at rest with Katina and God. What a good life. Thank you George.
August 11th, 2026
My dear Brother George was a great blessing to my life. He was a man of faith, love, and righteousness. His support for my ministry will never be forgotten. I still remember the first time I had a Board Meeting at the Surrey Church and he shook my hand and said a word in Greek which meant be a man of steel (σιδερένιος). This word encouraged and strengthened me as I heard it in my own Greek language. From that time he and his dear late wife Katina were a tremendous support to my dear late wife Elida and myself in our ministry always encouraging us to continue to preach and teach the truth as it is in Jesus. He will be very missed, but I know one day soon we will all meet again in the Kingdom, by the grace of Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior to Whom with the Father and the Holy Ghost be all the honor and the glory, Amen.
August 10th, 2026
May uncle George rest in peace knowing he lived an exemplary life to all who knew him. Always kind and considerate to family, friends and even strangers. I can imagine him back in the arms of his beloved Catina having a good laugh. May his memory be eternal.
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