On 5 May beloved member of the Greek community of Melbourne, Vassilis Lymperis passed away aged 76.
Mr Lymperis was born in Vasilitsi, Messinia and worked at the previously Greek owned Reatreat Hotel in Brunswick.
‘Bill’ as he was known, shared his name with the legendary Retreat Hotel in Brunswick that was home to the Apodimi Kompania that brought their traditional sound and passion for rebetika many decades ago.
Bill’s work ethic was unparalleled, serving with both hands and having complete control of the floor no matter how many people were piled in. He had the ability to bond with customers and feel at home.
Past co-workers and patrons say that Bill worked there even before Apodimi Kompania began appearing in the pub.
His death is mourned by many and his life remembered, coming just a few weeks after the passing of another legendary Retreat Hotel associate, Kostas Kosmas, father of the late Hector Komos who was a member of the Apodimi Kompania.
