The sad news of the unexpected death of Dr Sianna Panagiotopoulos, was advised at last week's meeting. She was an esteemed Medical Researcher with Austin Health, a former member of the Club who had remained active in the Balwyn Group. Details of a service for Sianna follow.
The funeral will be held Wednesday 13th November 11.30am, at the Greek Orthodox church, The Presentation of Our Lady to the Temple, 5 Macedon Ave Balwyn North and afterwards at North Balwyn Bowls Club, 60 Buchanan Ave Balwyn North. Members are welcome to attend.
Following is an extract from an article in Neos Kosmos on Sianna on 21 October 24.
Victorian scientific community mourns the loss of Sianna Panagiotopoulos
Respected research manager and philanthropist remembered for legacy of compassion and dedication.
The scientific community of Victoria is in mourning following the passing of Sianna Panagiotopoulos, daughter of long-time colleague and friend Matina Panagiotopoulos.
The news of Sianna’s sudden death has left many in shock, as her kindness, dedication, and vibrant spirit touched the lives of all who knew her.
Born in Melbourne, Sianna excelled from a young age, distinguishing herself during her high school years with her diligence and integrity.
She graduated from the University of Melbourne and went on to earn her doctorate in Science, a moment of great pride for her family.Fluent in Greek, she embodied the values her parents instilled in her, reaching the pinnacle of her academic journey.
Sianna’s distinguished career saw her serve as the Manager of the Office of Research at Austin Health. In this role, she travelled extensively, representing her work at numerous international conferences focused on pharmaceuticals, her field of study.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Sianna’s deep compassion set her apart. She frequently visited patients, whether family or friends, during her hospital rounds, offering words of comfort and hope, her warm smile often a beacon of light in difficult times.
Sianna’s charitable spirit extended beyond her immediate circle. She was an active member of various committees and foundations, quietly working to combat diseases and improve the lives of others. She approached every endeavour with humility and dedication.
In addition to her scientific and philanthropic pursuits, Sianna was known for her hospitality. Friends and family fondly recall her culinary talents and the delicious meals and desserts she lovingly prepared for her guests. Her garden was another passion, where her roses and gardenias flourished, reflecting the care and attention she poured into all aspects of her life.
Life, however, can be unpredictable. Sianna had recently returned from a two-week trip to Cyprus, which included a visit to the occupied territories, leaving her with bittersweet memories. Her final stop was her parents’ birthplace, Nafplio, as if bidding it a quiet farewell. She had plans to visit the United States next, but her heart, sadly, failed her.
May her sweet smile shine on as she rests in the blooming gardens of heaven.
Our deepest condolences go out to her mother, Matina, her siblings Panagiotis and Jenny, her nephews Joel, Maximos, and Zachariah, and her young relatives Leonidas, Gabriella, and Adeline.
