Alberton says goodbye to the Griekse Boertjie
Yoti was fondly known by Albertonians as the Griekse Boertjie who brought love and joy to others through his music. His voice may no longer be heard but his musical legacy will live on.
Well-known Alberton singer Panayotis Loizos, better known as Yoti die Griekse Boertjie, died from Covid-19-related complications on July 1 at the age of 71 after being hospitalised since June 21.
Yoti was a legend in the music industry, having sung professionally for over 50 years. In 2020 Yoti, embarked on an 83 concert tour around the country to celebrate his 50th year in the industry. The tour was, however, cancelled after 16 concerts due to the onset of Covid-19.
Yoti will be remembered for his unique style of music, unifying the world through his music and his mastery of singing in Afrikaans, English and Greek.
“It’s like my heart has been ripped out,” said Yoti’s sister, Niki Dakopoulof, while speaking to the RECORD.
“His loss is a big loss for the Greek community and the whole Alberton community.”
He is survived by his three sisters: Niki, Chloe Zapheriou and Anphoulla Mbombolas.
Music was his first love
According to Niki, Yoti was married to his music. His family moved to Alberton when Yoti was still very young and they opened Loizos Café in Florentia.
She has fond memories of Yoti playing his guitar behind the counter while customers were in the store. After his national service and his father’s death, Yoti ran the family business for around 15 years but then decided to focus on his music career.
“I will always remember his hugs and smiles. He was always a happy and content brother.”
Last message
Yoti wrote a letter to the Alberton RECORD during his stay in the hospital. In the letter, he thanked the doctors and nurses for caring for him.
The letter said, “I’ve become very fragile and cry during the slightest emotion because, like most of us, I too have lost dear family members, friends and colleagues to this pandemic.
I would like to end off by thanking all who have sent me so many well messages of hope and inspiration, which have carried me through this difficult time.”
Yoti will be remembered by his family and the community for the love he had for others.
