Mr. John Patsikatheodorou was the Honorary Secretary and Treasurer on Brite’s Board of Directors from 2012. As well as a true gentleman, John was a long-time advocate for social change and justice, particularly for people with disability. In June last year, we received the sad news that John had suddenly passed away. This was a shock to us all.
John was a long time resident of Westmeadows with a background in management positions in the private and not-for-profit sectors, including extensive experience in finance, compliance, policy development and government relations. John was the CEO of a number of welfare agencies in the north-western suburbs and served on a number of organisation boards. He had very strong advocacy experience, wide local networks and in-depth experience in grass roots and community organisations.
In recognition of the tireless work and support John provided to Brite and the local community, and all the hearts he touched, we were honoured to unveil a plaque in his loving memory. John will always have a place at Brite; his plaque in our nursery is a fitting tribute and location to preserve his contribution forever.
John will always live in our hearts and our thoughts. His incredible impact will always be seen and felt all across Brite. Anyone who had the pleasure to meet John will attest to the special man that he is; and it seems that everyone – even from a brief encounter – keeps at least one special memory that they are more than happy to share.
For the unveiling of the memorial, we were joined by John’s wife Helen and sons Nicholas and Dimitri, Brite’s Chairperson Ms. Helena Gillies, fellow Brite Directors: Philip Perroni, Victor Dougall and Ray Gorman, as well as Ms Maria Vamvakinou MP – Federal Member for Calwell.
Thank you to everyone who attended this very special day; and, for taking a moment to share a memory of John and what he meant to each of us.
“You left too soon and we’ll miss you here, your legacy lives on through every tear”