Peter Danabassis

In Loving Memory of Peter (Panayiotis) Petros Danabassis

It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Peter (Panayiotis) Petros Danabassis, on Friday, August 28, 2026, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, at the age of 85.

Peter was born on December 16, 1940, on the beautiful island of Hydra, Greece, to Petros and Katina Danabassis. He was the youngest of six children. He was predeceased by his brothers James "Jimmy," Michael, Dimitri, and John, and his sister Nezo.

From a young age, Peter demonstrated an exceptional intellect, determination, and ambition. He attended the Hydra Naval Academy, where he served for four years and graduated at the top of his class. His academic achievements earned him an opportunity to work for a naval company, where he traveled with the third captain-a remarkable accomplishment for such a young man.

At the age of 18, Peter emigrated to Saskatoon in 1959, beginning a new chapter that would see him become one of the city's most recognizable and influential restaurateurs and entrepreneurs.

Peter was a true trailblazer in Saskatoon's restaurant and nightclub industry. He began his career as a server at Diana Grill, later becoming a bartender and manager at the Tent n Tavern. At the Top of the Inn, he served as manager and music promoter, developing a reputation for bringing people together and creating places where memories were made.

His first business venture was Cyranos, which he opened with his good friend Chris Kokkas. From there, Peter went on to sit at the helm of Dominic's, Emilio's, Crackers, and The Brass Rail. In 1988, he opened Peter D's, followed in 1991 by the Colonial Pub and Grill and the Cold Beer and Wine Store. In the mid-1990s, he continued his entrepreneurial journey with Venice House, the Copper Mug, Champs, and Prime's Steakhouse.

Peter's career was illustrious and successful, but his accomplishments were about much more than business. He had a natural ability to connect with people. His establishments became gathering places for generations of Saskatonians, and his influence on Saskatoon's hospitality and entertainment scene left an enduring legacy.

In 1981, Peter met his wife, Margaret Danabassis (née Niessen), and they married in 1983. Together, they built a loving home and a rich and comfortable life for their family. Peter was deeply proud of his Greek heritage and worked to maintain a strong connection between his family and his homeland.

At Christmas and during the holidays, the Danabassis home was always open to those who had nowhere else to go. There was always room at Peter and Margaret's table. His generosity extended far beyond his immediate family, and he had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome.

Peter was deeply connected to Saskatoon's Greek community and maintained many long and meaningful friendships throughout his life. He was, at one time, affectionately known as the Greek Ambassador of Folkfest, reflecting both his pride in his heritage and his dedication to sharing Greek culture with the wider Saskatoon community.

Peter will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Margaret; his son, Petros and his wife and their three daughters; his daughter, Katina; his daughter from a previous relationship, Alison Smith, and her son, Aaron Smith.

He is also survived by his nieces and nephews Cathy Maragos, Stephanie Corriveau, Peter Danabassis, Michael Danabassis, Ann Danabassis, Andriana Spanos, Petros Danabassis, Katina Danabassis-Haberman  and Toula Danabassis, as well as many extended family members and dear friends.

Peter will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him. He leaves behind a legacy of family, friendship, hard work, generosity, and an unwavering connection to his Greek roots.

Those who knew Peter will remember his generous spirit, quick wit, charismatic nature, and extraordinary ability to make people feel welcome. He lived a full and remarkable life, touching countless people along the way.

His family and friends will carry his memory forward-in the stories they tell, the laughter they share, the traditions he cherished, and the open door he always kept for others.

We love you, Peter. May you rest peacefully.

A private service will be held on Monday August 31st for family.

The public is invited to join for his burial at Woodlawn Cemetery on Wednesday September 2nd at 2:00pm. Please meet at the gates at 1:45pm.

Refreshments and a toast to Peter's life will take place at Mano's Restaurant afterwards around 4pm.