Panayiotis Aifantis, also known as Uncle Peter, died on Wednesday, 13 January at the age of 81. He was the owner of Greenhills Spar.

A memorial service was held for the beloved business owner at the Greek Orthodox Church in Germiston on Tuesday, 19 January.

Costa Stamaratis, a close relative said Aifantis died of pneumonia. He had also been suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s for a long time.

Over time his body started to suffer and eventually shut down,” Stamaratis said.

Stamaratis also said after being cremated, Aifantis’ remains will be taken back to Greece to be laid to rest.

“We are not sure when that will be done due to Covid-19,” he added.

Ricardo Gouveia, manager of Greenhills Spar said staff members were clad in black on the day of the memorial service to pay their last respects.

“Since we’ve heard the news of his passing we as staff members have endured a huge heartache. We’ve decided to wear black as a symbol of paying our last respects to Uncle Peter,” Gouveia said.

He described Aifantis as a man who was full of love, not only for his employees, but people in general. He also enjoyed talking and interacting with customers.

He was such an amazing man and every moment you spent with him you’d cherish because he could create a warm atmosphere with his jokes. The community adored him for the way he was; business was his passion and his everyday life. We will all miss him,” Gouveia concluded.