The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia announced the passing of Fr Nikolaos Lilimpakis, who reposed in the Lord on Saturday, September 13, 2026.
Born in Sitanos, Lasithi, Crete, in 1939, Fr Nikolaos studied at the Ecclesiastical School of Crete in Chania before moving to Australia in 1964 with his wife, Anna. The couple had three children.
He entered the priesthood in 1977 and later played a leading role in establishing and developing the Parish of the Transfiguration of Our Lord in Thomastown, Melbourne, where he served for many years. After returning to Melbourne following a period in Crete, he continued serving as an assistant priest in various parishes until retiring from active ministry in 2023 due to declining health.
Archbishop Makarios of Australia and Bishop Evmenios of Chora remained close to Fr Nikolaos during his final illness, with Archbishop Makarios visiting him only hours before his passing.
“Fr Nikolaos was a worthy laborer of the Gospel,” Archbishop Makarios said. “Serving in difficult times and under adverse conditions, with very limited means and resources, he managed to offer so much to our local Church.”
The Archbishop said Fr Nikolaos would be remembered with gratitude for his contribution to the establishment and growth of the Thomastown parish and for serving the faithful “with love and devotion for many decades.”
“May the Lord grant rest to his soul and may his memory be eternal,” he added.
The funeral service will be held at the Church of the Transfiguration of Our Lord in Thomastown on Saturday, September 19, at 10 a.m., presided over by Bishop Evmenios, representing Archbishop Makarios. Burial will follow at Yan Yean Cemetery.
