Obituary of Harriett Liakakos

In the small village of Vamvakou, Sparta, Laconia, during the heart of the Great Depression, Hariklia (Harriett) Liakakos was born on March 21, 1926, into a large family. Her early years were shaped by the dark shadows of World War II and the tumult of the Greek Junta. From a tender age, Harriett's hands knew the weight of work, cultivating a strength that was both physical and spiritual.

In 1953, Harriett crossed the ocean to Vancouver, Canada, with her two small children, Eirini and Pavlo, to meet her husband Georgios (George). Here, amidst the burgeoning Greek community of Kitsilano, Harriett’s home became a sanctuary. It was a place where the aroma of fresh bread and hot coffee mingled with the laughter and stories of countless Greek immigrants finding their way in a new land. Her door was always open, her heart ever expansive.

Harriett’s life radiated kindness, generosity, and boundless love. As a mother to Eirini (Nikitas), Pavlo (Heidi), John (Georgia), and Dimitri (Theresa), she was the quiet force that held her family together. Her gentle spirit, wise eyes, and kind laughter nurtured a household rich with love and tradition. With a mere glance, she guided her family, her strength and patience always present, always enduring.

Deeply rooted in the Greek Orthodox faith, Harriett found her spiritual home at St. George's Orthodox Cathedral. She served diligently with the Philoptochos, sang with the choir, and was an active member of the Daughters of Penelope. Her faith took her on pilgrimages to the Holy Lands, journeys that deepened her devotion and enriched her soul.

Her legacy flourishes in her grandchildren: Paulette (Giuliano), Costa (Lorene), George (Loraine), Briton, Alexandra, Clea (Connor), Anthony, Rikki (Eli), and Cambria; and great-grandchildren: Sophia, Alexandros, Nicholas, Eirini, Zoe, Benicio, Lily, Valerie, and Rhea. Harriett’s life was filled with love, kindness, and generosity, touching the hearts of family and friends in Canada, the United States, and Greece.

Though diminutive in stature, Harriett’s spirit was mighty. Her life, stretching from the small streets of Vamvakou to the vibrant enclave of Greektown, embodied resilience and grace. She lived with a steadfast heart, her faith and love lighting the way for those who followed. Harriett’s memory will forever be a guiding star, illuminating the paths of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

The family would like to express their deepest and heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and care aides at Arbutus Care Centre that provided the utmost care, assistance, and love to Harriett. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. George's Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Harriett's memory.

Funeral Prayers to be held at St. George's Greek Orthodox Church, 4500 Arbutus Street, Vancouver, on Thursday, August 15th at 7:00 pm.

Funeral Service to be held on Friday, August 16th at 11:00 am, also at St. George's.

Interment at Forest Lawn Cemetery.