Emmanuel Alfieris, Former President of Kytherian Association of Australia, Passes Away at 53

Emmanuel Alfieris tragically passed away on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, after suffering a heart attack during a soccer match with his beloved Belmore Eagles FC at Rudd Park. He was just 53 years old and is survived by his father George, wife Louise, and two children.

Emmanuel was a cherished member of Sydney’s Greek community. He served as President of the Kytherian Association of Australia (KAA) from 2018 to 2022 and held roles on various Boards, including volunteering and being a Board member at All Saints Greek Orthodox Parish and Community in Belmore for several years.

Barbara Zantiotis, the current President of the Kytherian Association of Australia, described Emmanuel as having an immense love for all things Kytherian. During his tenure, he introduced measures to safeguard the KAA for future generations and was known for his generosity, supporting numerous initiatives both locally and in Greece.

More than 300 people gathered at Rudd Park in Belfield, Sydney on Sunday, July 21, 2024, the vigil in Emmanuel’s memory began at 7 PM, led by Michaelangelo Kontoulis, a childhood friend from Greece. Several of Emmanuel’s family and friends, including his brother Nick, wife, and son George, delivered heartfelt speeches. They spoke of Emmanuel's unique character, highlighting his kindness, generosity, and humour.

Nick moved the crowd to tears when he expressed his inability to play soccer again without his brother, reflecting on their shared love for the sport.

At 7:30 PM, a minute of silence was observed, marking the time of Emmanuel’s heart attack, followed by family and soccer players laying flowers at the spot where he passed away.

The Kytherian Association of Australia (KAA) provided a statement expressing their deep sadness for the passing of their former President, reflecting on his tremendous character.

“His kind spirit, unfailing generosity, great vision, passion for life, unwavering faith, and his big bright smile will be missed by us all. We have lost an amazing person, heaven has gained another angel. Farewell dear friend,” they said in a Facebook post.

All Saints Greek Orthodox Parish and Community of Belmore and District echoed this sentiment on a Facebook post.

“Emmanuel was a man of integrity, vision and much love. He was a big supporter of all initiatives undertaken by both our Parish and School. For this we are grateful. Emmanuel’s kind spirit and warmth will be missed. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. May the Good Lord grant him rest and may his memory be eternal.”

Tributes have poured in from various corners of our community, underscoring the profound impact Emmanuel had on everyone he met.

All images copyright Greek City Times