Peter Papavarnavas: A name that will forever be a part of Parys

Well-known businessman Peter Papavarnavas, passed away on Tuesday in the agte of 93. He has been a part of the Parys community for many years and played an important role in the development of several business centres in Parys.

 In March 1997 he started building the Pick ’n Pay centre and upgraded the Palm Court Hotel.

He was the first owner of the Pick ’n Pay franchise in Parys, which he sold later. In 2002 it was due to his negotiations and initiative that the Clicks building next to the museum became part of town. Then the extension of the Pick ’n Pay centre followed the arrival of even more brand names in Parys, including Mr Price and Sheet Street.

In 2008 he revamped the Shoprite building with several more stores.

He redeveloped the National Centre and was responsible for Choppies opening in Parys with another brand new building. Not only did the development help in creating jobs, but also kept business local and even drew people from the city to shop here in a friendly and warm hearted rural atmosphere. In 2013 another development followed thanks to the Papavarnavas’ initiative with the first underground parking facility and another centre, the Parys Bouldevard Centre in Buiten Street.

The development also included the first and only elevator in Parys, at the underground parking facility.    

Uncle Peter as he was known to many Parysenaars, not only contributed towards the economical development of town, but also never hesitated to invest in the community and their well-being. In 2020 Community Care, a voluntary medical service run by professional people who when not on duty, offer their medical service and time for free to the communities of Parys, Tumahole, Vredefort, Mokwallo, Lindequesdrift and surrounding areas, was visualised.

Uncle Peter sponsored Community Care’s first vehicle and supported the service since they started 10 years ago. Last year this service which is totally dependant of public donations, could also be extended to the community of Meyerton.

Uncle Peter was a member of the Parys Rotary Club for many years and also a former club president. He was a steady and hefty contributor to most organisations and had a firm interest in community activities including the town’s newspaper. Uncle Peter will be sadly missed and is saluted by the community of Parys at large for the tremendous contribution he made over years to the town.

The funeral service was on Saturday 11 September.