The sister-in-law of Greek singer Dimitris Kokotas has published an emotional online tribute following his death on Tuesday, August 25, at the age of 57.
Emmanouela Petraki, whose sister Katerina was married to Kokotas, shared joint photographs with the performer on Instagram alongside a tribute describing him as the brother she never had.
Petraki explained that the pair shared a remarkably close bond throughout his life, adding that his loss has left a painful void for their family.
Childhood autograph request
In her social media post, Petraki revealed that she was personally responsible for introducing her sister to the popular musician when she was just 10 years old.
She recalled begging Katerina, who was leaving for an evening out at a nightclub where Kokotas was performing, to bring back an autograph from the singer.
Petraki wrote that securing the requested autograph proved to be the greatest gift she would ever give her sister, as it brought Katerina into contact with Kokotas.
The initial meeting blossomed into a romance and marriage that brought forth a daughter, with Kokotas quickly becoming an integral member of their family.
Family memories and bond
Reflecting on their relationship, Petraki noted that Kokotas was far more than a brother-in-law, serving as her trusted confidant whenever she faced personal challenges or sought advice.
She recalled that the singer placed immense value on family unity and could never imagine missing Sunday meals or holiday gatherings together as a family.
Petraki added that they shared warm terms of endearment, noting that she affectionately called him her little brother-in-law while he referred to her as his little sister-in-law and always welcomed her with a tight embrace.
Describing Kokotas as the most innocent, childlike soul she had ever met, she wrote that he was a bright star who did not get to shine for as long as he deserved.
Funeral service and tributes
Petraki accompanied her post with Kokotas's hit song Minyma Grapto, stating that dedicating the track felt more meaningful to her now than ever before.
Expressing her endless love and the deep pain caused by his absence, she closed her message by asking the late singer to continue watching over her sister and family.
The emotional online tribute followed the final farewell service for Kokotas, which took place on Friday, August 28.
Speaking during the funeral eulogy, his wife Katerina expressed profound gratitude to her late husband for their child and shared her conviction that he would continue to watch over them from above.
