The Greek Australian community was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of one of its most passionate and committed members, Constantine Karavitis last Sunday.
Karavitis was born in Peristeri Laconias, Greece on 11 March 1944. Son of Ioannis and Panagiota, brother to Dimitra, Stella and Theodora. He migrated to Australia, December 1955, arriving in Freemantle then heading to Melbourne. Karavitis settled in Brunswick and lived there all of his childhood and teenage years.
He married his loving wife Triantafillia (Lisa) on 26 April 1969. Togther they had four children: Panagiota, Katerina, Ioanni and Evangelos. He was grandfather to Costa, Leonidas, Athenae, Fotios, Kosta, and Triantafillia and father-in-law to Peter and Nick.
From an early age, he became involved in community issues, especially through providing assistance to newly arrived migrants. His love for family, soccer, the Pallaconian Brotherhood and politics dominated his life and drove his passion to become the man that we all knew. He was upstanding family man, that gave everything for his wife and children. He also had a wide circle of friends that respected him.
His love of soccer had him involved with Brunswick City Soccer Club for years and took his passion to State and National levels getting involved further with the Federations to support young talent.
He rejuvenated the Pallaconian Brotherhood in 1987 when he became President. He created the Youth Club and was instrumental in the creation of the Brunswick Sparta Sister City Relationship. In recent years, he also campaigned heavily for the erection of the bust of “LEONIDAS” in Sparta Place, Brunswick. “Leonidas” now stands proudly in the centre of Brunswick. Just 4 months ago, he organised a huge fundraiser and a substantial donation was made to the Asylo Aniaton Spartis He continued his relationship with the Brotherhood to his final breath.
In 2012, Karavitis was awarded a Meritorious Service Award by the Governor General for Excellence in Multicultural Affairs. He lived his life for his family and the community.
