Olga Gogas

With profound sadness, our family announces the passing of Olga Gogas (née Simeonakis), aged 85, on June 8, 2021, peacefully at Trillium Villa Nursing Home.  Survived by George, her beloved husband of 64 years, sister Mara (Angel), sister-in-law Leka, adoring children Nic (Trish), Jim (Susie) and Helen (Paul), cherished grandchildren Gabrielle (Leo), Andrea (Jason) and Olivia, great-granddaughter Evie and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Predeceased by siblings Nick, Peter (Tersia), Louis (Olga) and twin brother Stacey.

Born February 4, 1936, in Mela, Kastoria, Greece (an ethnic Macedonian village originally named Statisa), Olga was uprooted by war to Budapest, before escaping revolution in Hungary through England to Canada. Arriving in Sarnia in 1956, she married and worked a variety of jobs to help support her growing family. Olga bemoaned her lack of preparation for marriage and motherhood, but imparted strong sets of values in her children, adroitly maintained a busy home and became an accomplished cook, renowned within the family for her lemon chicken soup, zalnicha (spinach pie) and baklava. She was proud of her Macedonian heritage, enjoying the frequent company of her sizeable extended family that also migrated to Sarnia.

Olga courageously survived cancer in 2003, and resolutely overcame related health issues that followed through the ensuing years. Her determination during her final days inspired her family and caring staff at Trillium.  For all her struggles and turmoil, Olga never failed to demonstrate more concern for family, friends and neighbours than herself.

Special thanks to the dedicated and tireless nurses, therapists, life-enrichment and all healthcare workers at Trillium for the comfort provided during Olga’s difficult time at the facility. You were her family whom she loved; especially during complete isolation of her own family with the COVID-19 pandemic. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Sarnia.

Resting at the D.J. Robb Funeral Home & Cremation Centre (102 N. Victoria St., Sarnia) where a private service will be held on Friday, June 11 at 2:00 p.m.  A private family interment will follow at Lakeview Cemetery. 

Please note, as per the directive of the Bereavement Authority of Ontario, all in attendance are required to social distance and to wear a face mask.  Memories, photos or messages of condolence may be shared at www.djrobb.on.ca