Obituary of Leonidas (Leo) Kourelias

Leonidas (Leo) Kourelias, July 20, 1946 - June 10, 2023, was determined to make something of himself after arriving in Canada from Greece at age 18. Imprints were made along his journey when he started as a mechanical engineer at CNR (70’s). Those imprints weren’t enough, so he forged ahead changing direction, and owned gas stations/mechanic shops (80’s) where he could make his own decisions. In the 90’s, he bought the old Tune-Ups/ Wellington Tavern and literally made Vertigo Niteclub rock with alternative music presented by now world-renowned DJ, Richie Rich. This era will be remembered by many (you know who you are!) One last entrepreneurial hurrah before retiring was To Steki Cafe in 2000’s, a place to gather and socialize…a reprieve from the high-energy bar scene of Vertigo! Leo used his dynamic personality, wonderful sense of humour, solid leadership skills and big heart to coach young boys’ travel soccer teams with F.C. Nationals and Hellenic during the 80’s/90’s and early 2000’s, positively influencing their lives, and leaving more of a lasting imprint as his legacy. Leo lived life large and in charge! He will be greatly missed; forever and always to be remembered. Parents - Sophia (nee Oikonomopoulos) and Demetrios Kourelias (both deceased), Greece. Siblings - Andreas (deceased) and Vasiliki Kourelias, Greece; Spiros (deceased) and Ourania Kourelias, Windsor Children - Dayna Kourelias and Vince Lombardo, Windsor; Darci Kourelias, Windsor Ex-wife and life-long friend - Crystal (Kennedy) Kourelias, Windsor Many surviving nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and extended family will miss Leo’s exuberant personality. RIP Leo until we meet again. Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held at the Hellenic Cultural Centre, 3052 Walker Road (next to the Greek Orthodox Church), north of E.C. Row Expressway, on Tuesday, June 27, 2023 from 11 am - 1 pm. Arrangements entrusted to SIMPLE CHOICE (Wyandotte) 519-254-2585. Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared with the family at www.simplechoicecremation.ca