Efrossini Karakolis

Our Matriarch is at rest. With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Efrosini (Frosa) Karakolis (nee, Evangelou), at the incredible age of 94. Our mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and lighthouse dimmed her light to rejoin her loving husband of 69 years, Leonidas (2021). She is survived by her loving and devoted sons Theofanis (Fotini), Tasse (Georgia), Paul (Sandra), her grandchildren Michael (Melissa), Thomas (Olivia), Nicholas (Ashley), Victoria (Noah), Adam (Ivanna), Evan, Dara (Corentin) and her great grandchildren Gabriel, Avery, Caiden and baby Zoe. She also leaves behind many nephews and nieces, including her beloved niece Maria (Christos), their children and grandchildren.

Frosa was born in Meliti, Florina, Greece in 1931 to Boris and Melpomeni Evangelou. The third of five siblings, she worked in her family's farmlands until her marriage to Leonidas at the tender age of 21 at which point she relocated to his village, Messohori, Florina. During her years as a young bride, work often took Leonidas away first to the Greek army and then to Germany. Frosa was left to work the family farmstead and steer her three sons on her own. These early years helped her develop a fortitude that would carry her through her lifetime. In 1966, everything would change when they joined her brother, Petros, and his family in Canada. In her adopted homeland, Frosa saw a world of possibilities and found her stride alongside Leonidas. With her strong work ethic, formidable character, and fierce intelligence, she and Leonidas worked without pause to build a life unimaginable from their humble beginnings. Her unwavering values and virtues were her guide, and they translated into a successful and dedicated family life and incredible legacy. Forever proud of her three sons for their personal and professional achievements, it was her role as Baba, Grandma, and Grandma Senior that made all the hardships worthwhile. Her uncontainable pride of her seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren - who she spoke of with such joy - filled the room and was a pleasure to witness. They were the sweet fruits of all her labour.

Frosa's love and giving nature cast a wide net. In her time here, she and Leonidas helped many family members settle in Canada, true to her name, she was a guiding light, helping others to navigate the difficulties of settling in a new country and opening up their home. It wasn't always hard work. Frosa and Leonidas enjoyed time with family and friends. They loved and took pride in their home and award-winning flower gardens. Over the years, she hosted many loving gatherings full of good food, and celebrations. As families grew, her house would become a playground for grandchildren, great grandchildren and great nieces and nephews. It later became a gallery, filled with framed photos on every wall and table, a celebration of everyone she loved, and who she raised with her warmth and her bright light.

Toward the end of her life, Frosa spoke often of her childhood and her family. She recalled century old folk songs, which she took comfort in singing. Frosa lit up at the sight and sound of the young faces who would visit, and she took comfort in the love of her dedicated children who never left her side. Frosa closed those bright eyes for the last time, and although she has left us, we take comfort that she is now back home, with her siblings: Kosta (Stonja) (nephew Boris (Sophia), Petros (Triantafilia), Nicola, (nephew John), Triantafilia (Christos) (nephew Sotiri and niece Frideriki) and of course her parents, Mamce and Tate.

We would like to thank Dr. Boardman and the amazing nurses, caregivers and staff at AgeCare Trilogy Long Term Care Residence, Scarborough. Their heartfelt attention made a difference, and we will forever be grateful for the gentle care provided in her final years.

In lieu of flowers donations in Efrossini's memory can be directed to: 
https://www.shnfoundation.ca/ways-to-give/gifts-in-memory/
and/or
St. Johns Greek Orthodox Church: 
https://www.greekcommunity.org/st-john

Funeral Service Details:

Visitation: Monday September 29, 2025St. John’s Greek Orthodox Church 1385 Warden Avenue, Scarborough, ON 10:00 am to 11 :00 am

Funeral Service:Monday September 29, 2025St. John’s Greek Orthodox Church1385 Warden Avenue, Scarborough, ON 11:00 am

Interment to follow: St. Margaret's/West Hill Cemetery

May she rest in peace