It is with deep sadness that we share the peaceful passing of Louis (Elias) Velianou, a devoted husband, father and grandfather, on August 23, 2025 just three weeks shy of his 90th birthday.

Louis is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Chrisanthi, his sons James (Leah) and Tom (Antonia), and his daughter Christina (John). He was a proud Papou to six cherished grandchildren: Nicole, Chrisanthi, Eleias, Sofia, Elias, and baby Theodore. He will be greatly missed by his extended family and countless friends.

Louis was born September 12, 1935 to Bozinis and Christina in the Greek village of Agia Paraskevi near Florina. Louis lived through the hardships of Nazi occupation during World War II and the Greek Civil War that followed. These early struggles forged in him a resilient spirit. This coupled with his unshakable optimism gave him the courage to seek a better future for himself and his family. He immigrated to Canada in the early 1960s and worked tirelessly to establish himself in his new home while also continuing to support loved ones back in Greece.

On November 14, 1965, Louis married Chrisanthi and together they built a life rooted in love, faith, and strong family values. In 1966, he co-founded Mississauga’s iconic restaurant, The Orchard, with his business partner and brother in spirit, Angelo Mazaris. Over the next 50 years, The Orchard established itself as a hub in Mississauga that encouraged all members of the community to come together, with Louis (and his love of good banter) at the center of it all. He was always willing to listen and provide sage advice when called upon. This legacy lives on through his son Tom, who continues to run The Orchard with the same dedication and heart, serving the Cooksville community with pride.

Louis’s dedication to his community went well beyond his business endeavors. A dedicated Hellene, he was instrumental in helping to establish the Greek Community of Mississauga and was an early supporter of the Hellenic Home for the Aged. Deeply committed to local causes, he was always ready to lend a hand. Louis supported initiatives such as the Mississauga News Christmas Fund, which aided underprivileged families, and played an active role in fundraising for the Credit Valley Hospital through its well-known “Jail and Bail” campaign. In recognition of his exceptional civic contributions, he was honoured with the Ontario Bicentennial Award for Volunteers in 1984.

Above all, Louis's greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends, especially over a shared meal. His legacy lives on through his children and grandchildren, who have had numerous opportunities and successes because of his courage, generosity, and sacrifice. He was a man of honour who gave freely and unconditionally to all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.

Family and friends are invited to commemorate and honour the remarkable legacy he leaves behind. May he Rest in Peace and his memory be eternal.

Friends may call at the Turner & Porter Peel Chapel, 2180 Hurontario St., on Thursday August 28, 2025 from 3-8pm. A Funeral Service will be held at Greek Orthodox Church of Prophet Elias, 1785 Matheson Blvd., on Friday, August 29, 2025 at 12pm. Interment will follow at Meadowvale Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider donating to the Greek Orthodox Church of Prophet Elias of Mississauga.