Born in Messinia, Greece in 1922, the year of the Asia Minor Catastrophe, his eyes have definitely seen a lot. George Ligouris emigrated to Australia in 1967, another tough year for Greece, as the country was under the dark shadow of the Junta and Papadopoulos’ dictatorship.
Now, 100 years later, he remains as active and positive as ever, having celebrated a centennial birthday on 20 January, 2022 in his hometown of Melbourne.
In the happiest of atmospheres, he welcomed the day with a big smile and open arms.
The only thing missing from the happy event was his wife Athanasia, who passed away two and a half years ago.
The couple had five children – three daughters and two sons – which in turn gave them 14 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren.
Back in Greece, Mr Ligouris was a constable. Initially, he moved with his family to Germany, returned to Greece and then chose Australia which became his new home.
Here, he worked hard, for decades at Holden and still dedicated time and his best self to his wife and children.
“Even today”, his daughter Niki Drakopoulou says, “he remains active”.
“His greatest joy is having his loved ones round him and his garden that he takes care of with love and meraki.”
