The passing of Nick Tsiligiris, proprietor of the famous Olympic Doughnuts in Melbourne, was met with sadness and an outpouring of tributes and messages from so many who knew and cherished him.
His gentle smile and kindness left a lasting impression in the community of Footscray, where he sold his wonderful doughnuts for over 30 years.
The sad news was announced by his daughter, Gina Hasapis, on her social media page, and since then she has been overwhelmed by the messages she has received from people who remember him for his ‘heart of gold’.
After all, Mr Tsiligiris is an integral part of the history of Melbourne’s western suburbs, inspiring a documentary by Ian Tran and Rachel Morssink, and even a mural, created last year by artist Ling, on the corner of Leeds Street, close to where he had set up his little shop for so many years.
“Nick was a wonderful man and a great father, grandfather brother, uncle, godfather, friend and confidante. He made a lasting impression on all who knew and met him,” his daughter, Gina Hasapis wrote in her statement.
“The world is certainly sadder and poorer without him in it. His passing is already being felt and mourned by those who knew and loved him. But his legacy and memories of his smile, cheekiness and doughnuts will live on in all of us.”
Nick Tsiligiris drew his last breath on Thursday, at the age of 86, in the nursing home where he was staying for the last few months. His health was deteriorating and he needed care around the clock.
For the past weeks, his daughter did not leave his side, and all his family had the opportunity to say goodbye before he peacefully passed on.
“My father was never judgmental. He had a lot of empathy. He had a lot of understanding. It didn’t matter who you were, and I believe that was what the people of Footscray loved about him,” his daughter Gina Hasapis told Neos Kosmos, when his portrait was painted by street artist Ling last year.
Nick Tsiligiris’ funeral will take place on Friday, and will be attended by his closest family members, as restrictions across Victoria are still in place.
He will always be remembered as wonderful man who brought joy to people’s lives.
