Goodbye, my friend.
I feel the need to share some thoughts and feelings that have been dominating my mind since yesterday.
Nikos Vardas, known to all Kythirians for his career in the archaeological service, for many years president of his community, for many years president of the hunting club, a man of dedication, hard work, efficiency, family, friendship, and companionship, is no longer with us.
An excellent family man, together with his worthy wife, they were fortunate to see their children excel in their chosen fields: Panagiotis, a successful professor of cardiac surgery at American universities, and Elina and Panagiotis, successful entrepreneurs and leaders in the development of tourism on our island.
However, he also excelled in his work as a key member of the service. For decades, he spearheaded the restoration and maintenance of important monuments on our island. From the Venetian castle in Chora to the last remote deserted chapel, they all captured his interest and care.
Such an energetic and effective person could not help but contribute to the community.
He was a leading figure in the creation of our municipal party in 2006.
He was elected president of the Livadi community and played a leading role in the implementation of important projects in the villages of his community. His fellow citizens, appreciating his work, honored him and elected him for three terms, at which point he decided to retire.
However, fate did not allow him to continue creating and enjoying life. He fought bravely against his terminal illness for a long time, but last night he decided, still young, to withdraw from the battle with dignity, just as he had lived his entire life with dignity!
The void he leaves in his family and in all of us, his friends, is enormous. You will live on in our thoughts and in our hearts, Niko. We will never forget you, our friend Niko.
May the soil of your homeland that will cover you be light.
