Panagiota (Penny) Bournas

It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Panagiota (Penny) Bournas, who left this world at the age of 70. Born in 1954 in the picturesque town of Kastoria, Greece, she radiated kindness, resilience, and a deep love for her family. In 1971, she married the love of her life, Konstantinos (Kosta) Bournas, while he was serving in the army. They built their life together on love and loyalty, welcoming their first child, Nicholas, in 1972. In 1973, they made the courageous decision to move to Canada to join Konstantinos’ family, where they would start a new chapter, filled with dreams and hope for their future.

Their home was a constant source of warmth, laughter, and love, always open to friends and family. Panagiota was known for her hospitality, and her immense heart. She and Kosta loved nothing more than gathering those they loved around their table, sharing meals, laughter, and dancing. In 1979, they were blessed with the arrival of their daughter, Marina, completing their family and deepening the joy in their home.

In 1997, tragedy struck when Panagiota lost her beloved Kosta to cancer. The grief was overwhelming, but she never wavered in her strength. Even in her darkest days, she found the courage to carry on, providing for her children with a quiet resilience and endless love. Her strength became her children’s shelter, and her unwavering presence gave them the courage to face the world. She worked tirelessly, building a meaningful career at the Salvation Army, where she spent 25 years not only providing for her family but touching the lives of those around her. She was more than an employee; she was a friend, a confidante, and a light to everyone who knew her. 

Her life took on new meaning in 2009, when she became a grandmother. The birth of her first grandchild, Aris-Dean, reignited a spark in her heart, bringing joy that had felt lost for so long. She would often say that becoming a grandmother gave her a reason to smile again. In 2012, her happiness multiplied when she welcomed twin grandchildren, Mateas and Naia, into her heart. They were her pride and joy, and she dedicated herself to them with boundless love.

Panagiota carried her family through life’s darkest moments with grace and strength, always putting them first. Her presence was a constant and unwavering source of support. She gave her all to those she loved, and her legacy of love will live on through her children, her grandchildren, and the countless lives she touched along the way.

She is survived by her son Nicholas, daughter Marina, loving son in law Matt and grandchildren, Aris-Dean, Mateas & Naia. 

We will miss her every day, but her spirit lives on in the laughter of her grandchildren, the warmth of family gatherings, and the lessons of resilience and love she instilled in us all especially these last few months. Our hearts are broken, but we find solace in knowing that she is reunited with her beloved Kosta, watching over us, hand in hand, as they always were.

In lieu of flowers donation in Panagiotas’ memory can be made to Michael Garron Hospital Foundation  

May her memory be eternal

Funeral Service Information:

St. Irene Chrisovalantou Greek Orthodox Church, 

66 Gough Avenue Toronto, ON 

Tuesday October 15, 2024

Visitation: 10 am to 11 am

Funeral: Service 11 am

Interment: Pine Hills Cemetery, Section 23