A Memorial - Denis Sikiotis returns to Ithaki - Wednesday 6th June 2018

Denis Sikiotis passed away in Australia late last year, but his sons, Fionn and Panos, by following the wishes of their late father, returned his ashes to Ithaca, the place that held so much of Denis Sikiotis passion and the place he wanted his ashes to be buried. Fionn and Panos in memory of their father, invited people his father knew over the years to be part of the memorial. Denis Sikiotis was best known for clearing the walking paths around the island, long before walking them became a tourist attraction and viable business. He held some views that didn't always make him popular, but his convictions and the passion he had for them could not be faulted. One thing was always clear. He loved Ithaca and wanted to see the island in the best possible light for all to appreciate.

People started to gather at the home of Denis Sikiotis in Stavros at around midday and slowly made their way down into the tree shaded garden where a spit roast was cooking and the party that Denis wanted to have, celebrating his life, would be held. Fionn made a speech in both Greek and English, bringing to mind some wonderful memories of the man who had a reputation beyond himself. Friends were invited to say a few words also before Denis's ashes, along with a little bit of Australia and the beach and other things important to him, were buried under a big shady tree in his beloved piece of paradise on Ithaca. The party was filled with happy memories of Denis Sikiotis. Everyone had a story or two to tell about the man whose political convictions sometimes made him enemies, but also endowed him with a respect one only earns with a life well and decently lived. Denis Sikiotis will be missed.