Adelaide businessman Jim Diamantis, co-founder of Diamonds Camera, has been remembered as a hardworking and compassionate family man following his death at the age of 70 after a sudden stroke earlier this month.
Diamantis passed away peacefully after spending 10 days in a coma. His family described him as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, known for his generous spirit and willingness to help others.
“He was the first to pick up a shovel or chat with someone who was dealing with something in their life,” his son Nicholas said. “It was his caring nature that I admired most.”
Born in Kila, a small village in Kozani, Greece, Diamantis was the eldest of three brothers. He migrated to Adelaide with his family in 1966 at age 12, attending Croydon High School and juggling multiple jobs despite not speaking English.
He later studied electronics at trade school and secured work with camera company Hanimex.
In 1982, Diamantis and his brother Chris founded Diamonds Camera. “This was during a period that did not always look favourably to Europeans arriving in Australia,” Nicholas said.
Initially rejected by a major supplier, the brothers travelled to Hong Kong to source stock. Impressed by their determination, the supplier later agreed to work with them—on the condition they stop importing.
The business grew into one of Australia’s leading camera retailers, at one point operating four stores and employing more than 50 staff.
Outside of business, Diamantis loved spending time with his family, walking along the beach, and tending to his garden.
“He would always say that spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren gave him the most joy,” said his wife, Julie.
Diamantis is survived by Julie, his sons Nicholas and Billy, daughter-in-law Vassi, and grandchildren Dimitri and Irena.
Source: The Advertiser.
