Obituary of Presbytera Dionysia "Diane" Chelonis

It is with profound sadness that we announce that Presbytera Diane Chelonis, in her 88th year, passed away unexpectedly on September 9th, 2026, after a brief illness, with her loving family by her side.

Presbytera Diane was born July 5th, 1939, in Gastouni, Greece. She immigrated to Canada in 1953 and married her husband, Father Demetre Chelonis, in 1958. From the 60’s to the early 90’s, Father Demetre served Orthodox parishes in Panama, Nebraska, Kitchener, St. Catharines, Chatham and Brantford and so did she.  Presbytera Diane loved her church and was an active, well-loved member of the Philoptochos Ladies’ Society in all the communities she went to. She and her husband retired in London, Ontario.

She will always be remembered for her candour, generosity, practicality and her sense of humour; she loved her coffee and lunch dates with her friends and listening to her beloved audiobooks. In London, she participated fully in many Community events and activities: baking and cooking for Community festivals, bazaars, and volunteering wherever and however she was able to, right to the end.  Her grandchildren have fond memories of baking bread, watching game shows and movies, going on walks and shopping expeditions with her. She loved hosting them and sharing her family recipes with them. It was important to Presbytera Diane to teach the younger generation, whether it be her own grandchildren or other young people in the community, to continue cultural traditions.  She taught many people how to make arto, koliva and prosforo so that these practices would not be lost.

Presbytera Diane is lovingly remembered by her husband, Father Demetre Chelonis, her children Anna (George) Tsirgielis, Peter (Margie) Chelonis, her many beloved grandchildren and adored great-grandchild. She remains forever in the hearts of many nieces and nephews, extended family and friends in both Canada and Greece. Presbytera Diane is predeceased by her siblings George, Ted, John and Martha as well as by her parents, Demetrios and Christina Lagogianes. She will be deeply missed by all.

May her memory be eternal.

Family and friends will be received at the LOGAN-EVANS FUNERAL HOME, 371 Dundas St., London, on Monday, September 14th, from 6:00-9:00pm. Prayers will be held in the Logan Chapel at 8:00 pm. Funeral service will be held at the HOLY TRINITY GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH, 131 Southdale Rd. W., London, on Tuesday, September 15th, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Fr. Konstantine Chatzis officiating.  Interment in Woodland Cemetery, London.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial donations to the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in memory of Presbytera Diane Chelonis.

Online condolences can be expressed at www.logan-evans.ca