Obituary
Constantinos (Gus) Morfessis passed away peacefully on Friday, July 29, 2022, at the age of 94 years, with his loving family by his side.
Constantinos was born on November 26, 1927, in Vathi, Ithaki Greece, and made the courageous decision to immigrate to Canada in 1953. Upon his arrival in Calgary, he took an immediate interest in the restaurant industry which quickly developed into a passion that led him to travel much of western Canada and the territories in search of his next hospitality adventure. Years later during a visit to Greece, he met the love of his life Athanasia. They married and began their life journey together, which included creating a beautiful family and establishing the original Gus’s Pizza in North Hill mall in 1976. Gus was exceptionally kind and caring and always welcomed visits from friends, treating everyone as though they were family.
Aside from the restaurant business, Gus had a tremendous passion for reading and writing. In fact, it was rare to see him without a book or pen and paper in hand. In addition to reading various works of literature, he created his own original writing and had a gift for crafting unique and memorable poetry. His inspiration came primarily from people and nature, particularly his home island of Ithaki. Gus often recited his poetry at gatherings such as weddings and baptisms, and always received thunderous applause because of his lyrical wisdom and wit. He published many books during his life, received numerous literary awards, and shared his love of writing by gifting his books to close friends and family. His gentle nature and generosity will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Gus leaves behind his loving wife Athanasia; his two children Maria (Ioannis), and Constantinos (Vasiliki); five grandchildren Dionysi, Adrianna, Constantinos, Elias, and Athanasios; his sisters Angelika and Nina, and many nieces and nephews.
A prayer service will be held at Evan J. Strong Funeral Services (5502 2 Street SW) on Wednesday, August 3, 2022, at 6:00 pm. Funeral services will be held at St Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church (1 Tamarac Cres SW) Thursday, August 4, 2022, at 11:00 am, with a graveside service to follow at Queen’s Park Cemetery. Immediately following the graveside service, family and friends are invited for fellowship and lunch at the church hall.
Special thanks to the Agape Hospice staff for all of their support over the last weeks of Gus’ life. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the Salvation Army Agape Hospice.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Constantinos Gus Morfessis November 26 1927 July 29 2022 (age 94)..
Death notice for the town of: Calgary, Province: Alberta