JOHN SCOURAS

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JOHN SCOURAS It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden, but peaceful passing of John Scouras on Tuesday August 21, 2007 in Sifnos, Greece while vacationing with his beloved wife and family. John was 67 years of age. John leaves to mourn his wife of 35 years Vicky; his sons Demitris (Tracy) and Peter; daughter Elena; his three brothers Gus (Angel), George (Pat), Peter (Katerina); sisters-in-law Irini; Panagiota; Zafira (Bobby); brother-in-law Tom (Pitsa); many nieces and nephews whom he adored as his own; and numerous special friends. John was predeceased by his parents Demitrios and Eleni Scouras and his sister Voula Tsilalis and brother in law Tom Tsilalis. John was born in the village of Krokilio, Greece in 1939. He grew up in poverty during the Second World War, but in 1954 John left for Canada to join his young brothers in Winnipeg. Canada offered John and his brothers hope, safety and a chance to build a new life. In 1957 the three brothers, George, Gus and John opened their first restaurant; Junior's (now called VJ's) followed by the Big Boy in 1958 and finally the Red Top in 1960 with partners. John and his brother Gus took full ownership of the Red Top in 1970. The Red Top would become the landmark and symbol people would identify John with. The brothers were known for supporting, donating, coaching and feeding various local sporting teams. Players remain loyal to the Red Top and continue to bring their children and grandchildren. In August of 1971, John met the love of his life Vicky and three months later they were married. His wife Vicky was his best friend, confidant and biggest supporter. He adored her, respected her and made it his priority to bring her happiness. Together John and Vicky raised three children. Demitris, Elena and Peter were John's pride and joy. In addition, this past year he was delighted to welcome a daughter-in-law, Tracy, into the family. John rarely missed an opportunity to watch his children compete in various sporting events and was proud of all of their accomplishments. Watching his children grow into hard working, caring, and accomplished adults was a huge source of satisfaction for John. He loved his family and worked hard in order to provide them the life he never had growing up. John had many nieces and nephews and treated them as if they were his own kids. He was their shoulder to lean on when there was sorrow and their guardian when there was trouble. On many occasions John would appear at their door with sacks full of chocolate and candy and so, was affectionately dubbed the Candy Man'. This natural affection for children continued at the Red Top restaurant where after each meal children would line up in order to receive lollipops from John. Soccer was John's favourite pastime in Greece. As a child, he played as an all-star midfielder and he brought this love with him to Canada. In 1961, he managed and coached the Greek soccer team 'The Olympians', and later changed the name to Hellas, another name for Greece. He volunteered endless hours to establish and promote soccer in the city of Winnipeg. At the time of his passing he was serving as the President of the Manitoba Central Soccer League. John was proud and passionate of his heritage and he worked hard to instill that love in his family and community. His vision was to pass on the Greek culture and roots to the children. His greater vision was that the youth forge deep bonds, which would ensure the strength of the Greek people. To that end, he spent the last 15 years pursuing his dream to build a Manitoba Hellenic Cultural centre. John's dream will in fact come true with the ground breaking ceremony on September 9, 2007. Many times he served as president and board member of the St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church and, with the support of Father Apostolos Dracos, he established a Greek summer camp for young people in the community. John had a heart of gold and stories of his generosity are legendary. Family and friends alike are often heard sharing stories with a similar ending; John helping one in need. John was truly a compassionate man who treated people with dignity, respect and equality despite their circumstances. John made many friends around the world, and considered them all part of his extended family. He was loyal, affectionate, intelligent and hard working. His dedication to his family and his persistence to fulfill his dreams were surpassed by none other. At the age of 14 John left Greece with ten dollars in his pocket and a dream to own a car. What he left behind was a legacy second to none. John was truly a model figure as a husband, a father, a brother, an uncle, and friend. He was a true mentor and he will be greatly missed by all. Prayers will be held Thursday, August 30 at 7:00 p.m. at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 2255 Grant Ave. Funeral Service will be held on Friday, August 31 at 1:30 p.m. also at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church with Rev. Fr. Dimitrios Giannou officiating. Interment to follow in Waverley Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, we ask that any donations may be made in John's memory towards the Manitoba Hellenic Cultural Centre: 2255 Grant Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3P OS2, (204) 889-8723. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 29, 2007