Planting a garden has a way of bringing people together. And so it was with Gus when he'd come to visit his place next door.
We'd talk across the rising flowers -- simple talks, honest ones -- about his last trip to Greece, his love for family there, the abundant garlic he'd plant in the day and share with all around, his deep care for Helen, and the attention he gave to a longtime tenant. His soft-spoken manner was filled with grace and character.
In an earlier moment, Helen would join him. She'd stand quietly at the edge of the garden, looking down at the flowers, and I believe it made her happy. It was only later that I learned of the store they had out front, the community it created, and how the local kids would hang out at the back drinking pop.
Over time, his visits became more still and wistful. He'd stand quietly looking out at the place he'd lived in for many years, lost in the stories it held.
I will miss Gus. I will miss the connection to time and place that he brought. And in the fall, I will plant garlic in his memory and Helen's. My condolences go out to his family and to all those whose lives he touched.
I’m so sorry for your loss. I remember Gus with such fondness! The infinite patience he seemed to have while us neighbourhood kids hung around the beloved Helen’s Variety Store endlessly. He was always kind and friendly and engaging. Gus is part of my core childhood memories. May he rest peacefully. Condolences from all of our family.
My sincerest condolences to John and Jimmy and family on this tragic loss. My heart and best wishes to you all at this sad time. May he rest in peace. With love Tony Chioros.
My condolences to John, Elena and family. Always enjoyed my chats with Gus. He was a wonderful character that truly enjoyed life and spending time with his family!
Gus was a wonderful man whom I got to know through working at Locomotive Espresso in the former location of Helen’s variety. I came to know him and Lela, and was always happy to serve him his Americano with a smile. I’m sending my deepest love and sympathies to his family as they navigate the loss. He will not be forgotten - Bonnie Doiron
We were saddened to hear about your father's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.
You have our deepest condolences... George & Chrys Skikos
For several years we lived around the corner from Helen’s. We were regular customers, often finding excuses to visit because of the kindness of Gus and Lela. Our growing family necessitated a move and the toughest part of that was no longer being in close proximity to those incredible people. On behalf of the Grace family, I extend heartfelt condolences to Gus’ entire family. Best wishes. Duncan
Our deepest condolences to Kosta's loving and devoted family. His life was a treasure that you have been blessed by for all your lives.
With sympathy ... Antonios and Ellen Mamandras
John, Elena, and family,
Our deepest condolences for your loss. Your father is part of a generation that I truly respect and learned from. May his memory be eternal.
Nick and Debbie Kokkoros
I am so very sorry to read this news. I have many fond memories of Mr and Mrs Aggelopoulos down at ‘ Helen’s Variety ‘ as a kid , teenager and adult. Please accept my most sincere condolences…
Many warm memories of Gus and Lela as neighbour's and friends. Thinking of all of your family. Our sympathies to all of the family. May his memory be eternal. John and Joan Kappos
Ο Μπαρμπα Κωστας ηταν πολυ κυριος, νοικοκυρης, πατερας, παππους και λεβεντης. Παντα ειχε μια αξιοπρεπεις υπαρξη με τα σοφα του λογια, της συμβουλες και το κυρος. Τον ειδα επειτα το τραγικο θανατο της συζηγο του Κυρια Λελα στην εκκλησια της Αγια Τριαδα, και οταν τον συλληπηθηκε, βουρκωσαν τα ματια του και μου αγκαλιασε σφυχτα. Στους οικειους, εκφραζουμε Αιωνια η Μνημη.
Gus, we did not know you long but you were the best neighbour. Sid loved stopping by your house to say hi and "collect" his small treat. We will miss see you gardening outside and your smiles. Our pantry smells like the oregano you brought us from your recent trip to Greece and I am so happy you were able to return one more time.
We will miss you deeply.
This was sad news to read this morning. It's been many years since I have lived in London, but I have many fond memories of Gus, an honest and fine gentleman, who with his lovely wife Lela raised two wonderful boys. May his memory be eternal.
Peter Anas
“Mr. Gus” .. a real pioneer and well respected quiet leader of our Greek community here in London will be truly missed. Kosta, along with Helen, raised you boys into wonderful sons as you created beautiful families that we alll know made papoo & yayaa very proud indeed. Your heartfelt eloquent tribute says it all. Though it’s tough losing a parent, may the happy and joyful loving memories of a life well lived help you all find peace and comfort now and forever. Our sincere condolences. May his memory be eternal. God Bless.- George Georgopoulos & Family
We are deeply saddened to read of Kosta’s passing. A true gentleman, with a kind heart and a peaceful soul - he will be missed by all. Our deepest sympathies to all of you - may his Memory be Eternal and may you all find strength at this difficult time. All our love …
Dianna and Nick Gettas and family
Our sincerest condolences on the loss of your father and grandfather. We will always remember his kind and gentle nature and his lifelong devotion to our community. May his memory be eternal. Roula, Jim & Christina Koumoutsidis
The family of Kosta "Gus" Aggelopoulos uploaded a photo
