The Greek Australian community is in shock following the death of 23-year-old James Kondilios after he tested positive for COVID-19.
James was a science graduate and champion powerlifter who was double-vaccinated with no underlying medical conditions.
He died at St Vincent’s Hospital where he had been receiving treatment, according to a statement by NSW Health.
Tributes flow for James:
Following the announcement of James’ death, his friends and family have paid tribute to the young man on social media.
Many have described him as sweet, “nice to everyone” and hardworking. Others said his death was a reminder that COVID-19 can hit even the young and healthy.
James grew up in Sydney, where he attended Waverley College.
In 2015, he represented Australia at the Power Lifting World Championships in Finland, where he won a bronze medal.
He later completed an advanced science degree at the Australian National University in Canberra. In 2019, he was awarded a national science prize for his work on forestry and climate change.
Most recently, he worked as a data scientist at the Department of Social Services in Canberra.
According to a Facebook post by Acropolis Funerals, James’ funeral service will be held at St Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church on Thursday, January 13 at 10.30am. Friends and family are encouraged to wear colour “as that was what he would have loved.”
“Sincere thanks extended for the warm sentiments and expressions of sympathy and condolences, received from James’ family at this difficult time,” the post reads.
Source: ABC News.
