Paul Dracakis: Sydney businessman and Founder of long-standing Mosman jewellery store dies aged 83.

By ANNA USHER

Paul Dracakis, the leading Sydney jeweller with a long-standing business on Military Rd, has died aged 83.

Mr Dracakis died peacefully at his Seaforth home on Sunday, surrounded by his family.

Stores in Mosman, Brookvale and Castle Hill were all closed on Monday as a mark of respect for the man who emigrated to Australia aged 17, from the Greek Island of Kythera in 1957.

“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Paul Dracakis, a remarkable man who was not only a loving father, devoted husband, and cherished grandfather but also a true inspiration to all who knew him,” an announcement on the Dracakis Facebook page says.

“As we mourn the loss of this extraordinary soul, let us also celebrate the beautiful life he led and the profound impact he made on each of us. Rest in peace, dear Paul. Your legacy of love and kindness will continue to shine brightly through the lives you touched.”

Mr Dracakis, who served a term as an alderman on Manly Council from 1983-1987, was a member of the local Liberal Party and a close supporter and friend of former Prime Minister Tony Abbott.

Upon arrival in Australia, he lived in the NSW Riverina township of West Wyalong before moving to Manly, where he opened a delicatessen at 30 The Corso.

In 1980 he opened his first jewellery shop in Manly, moving to Warringah Mall in 1986.

In 1987, Mr Dracakis opened his Spit Junction shop front, where he became renowned for his exquisite “Hearts on Fire” diamond jewellery.

There is now also a third store at Castle Hill.

Locals have flooded social media with tributes to the gifted craftsman, a “pillar of the community”.

“There was nothing Paul was more proud of than having his three sons working in the jewellery trade with him,” one post reads, “he built an impeccable reputation in the trade, and you have all continued to maintain it. My thoughts and deepest condolences are with you and your whole family.”

“Always lovely to see Paul at the store when I used to pop in to satisfy my mild glitter addiction. Very sad to hear the news – what a legacy he leaves behind in you all,” says another.

“Rest in Peace, Paul. You were a truly wonderful man, and the legacy that you are leaving behind you is truly phenomenal.”

Peter Dracakis said his father was active in the community and Liberal Party politics.

“For a baby who was born in Nazi-occupied Greece, in extreme poverty, he did well,” he said.

“[When he moved to Australia], he had no support no language and no money.

“It was just sheer determination, guts and street smarts that got him through in the end.

“He was a larger-than-life character, much loved by everyone who did so much for so many people. He was very generous.”

Mr Dracakis is survived by his wife, Helen, and his four children, Nick, Peter, Theo and Fotina, plus nine grandchildren.

His funeral will be held at St Michael’s Greek Orthodox Church at Crows Nest at 10am, Thursday, August 17.

GOT A NEWS TIP? GET IN TOUCH!

Email: [email protected]