Obituary of Demetre Bountalas

Demetre (Jim) Bountalas

February 17, 1930 – January 11, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved patriarch, Demetre (Jim) Bountalas, 94, on January 11, 2025. Born in St. Spyridon, Boiotia, Greece, on February 17, 1930, Jim built a remarkable life centred on family, hard work, and dedication.

After immigrating to Canada, Jim settled in Saint John, NB, where he and his beloved wife, Mary, raised their five sons. A dedicated and loving father, Jim instilled the values of perseverance and integrity in his children.

Jim was a successful businessman, known for his ventures in the grocery and dry-cleaning industries. He owned and operated Jim’s Grocery and later went on to establish the One-Hour Martnizing Dry Cleaners and Betty Brite Cleaners alongside his brothers, Louis, Nick, and Dino. His tireless work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit left an indelible mark on those who knew him.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, Ioannis (John) and Garifalia (Litsa) Bountalas; his wife, Mary; his son, Peter; his brothers, Michael Bountalas, Louis Michael, Dino Michael; and his sister, Athena Podiotis; his nephew, John Michael; and niece, Liana Michael.

He is survived by his sons: Jon (Marilyn), Tony (Carol), George (Iliana), and Michael (Krista); his cherished grandchildren: Mary (Jameson), Celina, Dimitra (Tim), and Dimitris; and his great-grandsons: Mavrik and Maxis. He is also survived by his brother, Nick (Efthimia) Michael; his sisters-in-law, Diamando Michael and Mary Michael; and his nieces: Litsa (George), Dina (Theo), Litsa, and Ioanna (Takis), along with their families.

To his family, Jim was more than a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather—he was a cornerstone of love and wisdom, lovingly known to so many as Papou (grandfather in Greek). A pillar of strength and guidance, he was a guiding light for family and friends. His legacy is one of unconditional love, generosity, and a life lived with purpose.

May his memory be eternal and remain a comfort and inspiration for all of us.

Arrangements are entrusted to Brenan's Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, N.B. (506-634-7424). Visitation will take place at Brenan's Funeral Home on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 2:00-4:00 & 6:00-8:00 PM. A funeral service will be held at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church (33 Dorchester St, Saint John) on Thursday, January 16, 2025, from 11:00 AM, with interment to follow in Cedar Hill Extension Cemetery (1650 Manawagonish Rd, Saint John). For those unable to attend the funeral service, please join the family via livestream using the following link: https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=04abb651-96c8-4c67-8f66-17a4f5aa8bf9

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. Online condolences may be shared at www.brenansfh.com.