The Prospect community has farewelled much-loved barber John Giatras, remembered as the “heartbeat of Prospect,” at an emotional funeral service in Thebarton.
Hundreds gathered at St George Greek Orthodox Church on Monday, September 8 to pay their respects to the 61-year-old, who died in a tragic accident at home two weeks ago.
His sister, Mary Likos, described John as a “local legend” and “master of his craft,” adding: “Everyone present today and those who are unable to attend, had a very special friend, bond, friendship and kinship with John. He was able to connect with people from all walks of life and make them feel welcome and valued.”
Brother-in-law Peter Likos told mourners that although John did not have a family of his own, he had become an “honorary member” of the Likos family.
“John’s barber shop was his kingdom. He was a wonderful person with a heart of gold, he was like a third brother to me,” he said.
A heartfelt letter from long-time customer Elias Demourtzidis was also read aloud, recalling John as “one of the kindest souls I’ve ever known… the type of person who gave without expecting anything back, who showed up for everyone, every time.”
Following the service, mourners queued to say their final goodbyes at an open casket. In one of the day’s most poignant moments, John’s father George – with whom he had built John and George’s Hair Salon on Prospect Road in 1986 – embraced his son one last time.
The family has not yet confirmed whether the barber shop, which has remained closed since John’s passing, will reopen.
Source: The Advertiser
