The Ethnic Communities’ Council of New South Wales (ECCNSW) has issued a statement today following the death of Jack Passaris OAM at the age of 88.
Mr Passaris was a founding member of the ECCNSW – an organisation he loved and continued to serve from its foundation until his passing.
In 2023, the ECCNSW decided at its Annual General Meeting (AGM) to rename its building in honour of Mr Passaris, in recognition of his unwavering commitment and advocacy for multiculturalism. Mr Passaris and his family were present on the day and it was an immensely proud moment.
Mr Passaris was also a revered leader in the Cypriot community, having presided over the committee for Justice for Cyprus (SEKA NSW) for many years.
At Marrickville Council, Mr Passaris was a former Deputy Mayor. He served for 19 years as a Councillor.
He was President of the Greek Orthodox Parish of Newtown for 46 years, and also held numerous positions at the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia Consolidated Trust (former Treasurer), and Foundation for Hellenic Studies UNSW (Trustee).
In 2009, Mr Passaris received the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for his services to the community and his ongoing dedication to multiculturalism in Australia and community life. In 2014, he was awarded the Premier’s Lifetime Multicultural Community Service Medal.
In a statement, current Chair of the ECCNSW, Peter Doukas OAM, praised Mr Passaris for his commitment to multiculturalism and the Greek community.
“Multiculturalism in Australia has lost one of its stalwarts, as Jack was one of those few people who was ‘there’ during pivotal moments in Australian history, particularly its multicultural history,” Mr Doukas said.
“As a friend, as a colleague and as a mentor he has left his mark, and he will be deeply missed.”
Mr Passaris’ funeral will be held at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 366-378 King St, Newtown NSW 2042 on Friday 16 August 2024 at 10:30 am.
