Sotirios (Stan) Halkeas passed away early on Sunday, 12 July, aged 91.
Mr Halkeas had founded Halkeas Printing 50 years ago in the Sydney suburb of Taylor Square before moving to Chippendale. At its height, the company employed more than 50 staff members.He hailed from the small island of Sikinos in Greece. As a migrant to Australia, he went on to find and marry the love of his life with whom he had two daughters.
With his wife, Victoria, by his side, the two went on to create a successful business, starting with nothing. Despite humble beginnings, the two took advantage of all the opportunities Australia offered them whilst maintaining ‘filotimo’.
A man of decency, despite being a successful businessman, Mr Halkeas was remembered by all as a true gentleman and was known and respected by all from the community to former premiers and prime ministers. He also gave back to the Greek community and supported various Greek causes, including the Athens Olympic Games and the repatriation of the Parthenon Marbles.
The work of Halkeas Printing was used by numerous churches and the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese, and this was mainly offered as a labour of love rather for commercial gain.
He loved fishing and was an avid fisherman well into his old age.