OBITUARY
Caliope Iatrou
March 11, 1934 – January 13, 2019
Caliope “Popi” Iatrou: 84
It is with great sadness, that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, aunt and godmother, on Sunday, January 13th, 2019, at the Victoria General Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.
Callie was born on March 11,1934 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She was the daughter of George and Fanoula Alexander. Callie graduated from Queen Elizabeth High School, and attended the Academy of St Basil’s Greek American Teaching College in Garrison New York. There, she graduated with a degree in Greek Language instruction. Upon returning to Halifax, she taught at the Halifax Ladies College, headed the Junior League Day Care Center, and taught at the St George’s Greek Orthodox Greek School for close to a decade. From 1990 to 2002, she served as the Director of the Halifax Greek School, and as the church choir director of the St. George’s Orthodox Church for over 20 years. From a young age, Callie served as an interpreter, providing services to the hospitals and judicial institutions for expatriates, who requested her assistance as a translator.
Callie will be remembered as a dynamic community leader, and a tireless worker of Greek language, fostering multiculturalism. This passion led Callie to serve with the Nova Scotia Language School of Cultural Heritage Association during which time, she promoted not only language acquisition, but human rights and human values. Her efforts were recognized, and in 2003, Callie was honored with an award for these efforts, from the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada. As a businesswoman, working alongside her soul mate, Takis, she helped transition her family business Alexander’s, to the Cascade Restaurant and then to Bearly’s Beverage Room. Her infectious smile, her kind heart and compassionate spirit, will be long remembered by her customers and acquaintances.
Callie enjoyed spending her leisure time traveling to destinations, where the sun shined brightly; playing the piano; spending time with her grandchildren; and tutoring her many students. Quality time with family, friends and koumbari was precious to Callie. Her warmth and good nature frequently attracted her friends and family to her home, where she and Takis loved to entertain and chat about world affairs, sporting events, or Greek community issues. Drinking Greek coffee or sipping ice caps, were the drinks of choice during these spirited discussions.
Callie’s grandchildren were her heart and joy. They, as well as her family and friends, have been left a legacy of love and an exemplary model of life well lived.
Callie is survived by her sons, Mimi(Michelle), George (Angie), Halifax; grandchildren, Kallie, Katya, Maya, Victoria, and Theo; as well as many nephews, nieces and godchildren. She was predeceased by her loving husband Takis, sister, Mary (Fioratos) and brother, Leo (Alexander).
We would like to thank INT and the incredible staff of the nursing unit 3B of ENT at the Victoria General Hospital, for the wonderful care they gave Callie during her stay.
Visitation will be Thursday, January 17th, 2-4pm and 7-9 pm in J.A. Snow Funeral Home,339 Lacewood Dr., Halifax. Funeral service will be held Friday, January 18th at 1 pm in J A Snow Funeral Home. Reception will immediately follow at the St. George’s Greek Orthodox Community Center Hall, 38 Purcell’s Cove Rd. Family flowers only. Donations can be made to St George’s Greek School, 38 Purcell’s Cove Rd., Halifax.
To leave an on-line condolence, please, visit www.jasnowfuneralhome.com
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Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Caliope Iatrou 2019..
Décès pour la Ville: halifax, Province: Nova Scotia