Obituary of Peter Soumalias

Entrepreneur created a stage for Canadians to celebrate their own

A. Peter Soumalias
January 1, 1951—October 1, 2021

On October 1, 2021, Peter Soumalias, entrepreneur, visionary and co-founder of Canada’s Walk of Fame, passed away peacefully surrounded by family in Toronto.

In the 1950s, Peter’s family came to Canada from Greece. He quickly embraced this country as his own: he adopted Canadian culture, passionately followed our sports teams and worked relentlessly hard to make a difference. A trailblazer who cared deeply about making an impact, Peter developed those skills early while working at his family-run store in Kensington Market. Peter went on to own and operate several businesses, including the London Soap Factory and Canada Auto Parks. 

In 1998, his entrepreneurial spirit combined with his love for Canada's culture led Peter to become a founding director of Canada's Walk Of Fame. By honouring the country’s greatest achievers, he provided a stage to champion Canadian excellence—and to inspire future generations.

Peter always led with kindness. He believed in the potential of our beautiful country and our people. He believed in making dreams come true. More than anything, he believed in his family. He will be greatly missed by many but his lasting legacy—the spirit of patriotic celebration—will forever endure in stars embedded on the sidewalks of King Street in Toronto.

Peter is survived by his loving wife Giorgina; children Stefan (Stacey), Yiannis (Ashley), Marissa, Alexandra and Paul; grandchildren Cali, Mason and Andreas; siblings Tasia and Bill; and in-laws Phyllis and Vito (Sandra). He is predeceased by his parents, Yiannis and Soultana Soumalias; his father-in-law Secondo Bigioni; and his brother-in-law J.J Richards. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Peter’s personal caregiver, Louwie Ramos and his physician, Dr. Todd Walters.

A celebration of life will take place for friends and extended family at a later date. 

If you wish to make a contribution in Peter’s honour, please consider the Aphasia Institute.  

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