George Kondos

Born on October 23, 1922 in Athens, Greece and passed away November 11, 2015, in Sacramento, California with his loving family by his side. Preceded in death by his parents, Aristides and Ekaterini Kontovonisios, and 3 siblings, Olga Gounaras, and Dino and Niko Kontovounisios. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Mary Kondos, his adoring daughters, Katina (Kevin) Woodbury and Elena (Tom) Hillman, and his 5 beloved grandchildren, Lauren, Michael, Jack, Nico and Tommy.

George earned a business degree at Athens’ Anotati Emporiki Scholi, and put his degree to use working in the finance department for Athens City Hall. His employment was interrupted when he was drafted by the Greek Army to fight in the Civil War. George served as a Second Lieutenant in the army and was awarded a medal for his heroism. Returning to his job at Athens City Hall, he was sent to the United States to study the accounting practices of New York’s City Hall. A short detour to Sacramento to visit his Uncle Andrew turned into a lifelong stay when he met the love of his life, Mary Fakeris. George subsequently enrolled in California State University of Sacramento to learn English and study accounting. Upon earning his bachelor’s degree, he accepted a job as a business accountant with Cal Western Life Insurance Company. He was employed at Cal Western for 33 years and continued to work privately as an accountant for another several years after that.

At the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation in Sacramento he celebrated his faith and found friendship and purpose. George served on the Parish Council for the church and was a member of the Order of the Ahepa. In his golden years, George devoted himself to St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church in Elk Grove.

George loved America and appreciated the freedoms that he found in the United States but also loved the Greece he left behind. He traveled extensively, taking many trips to Greece and Europe with Mary and friends, and a special trip to Greece with his only granddaughter, Lauren. George could often be found poolside cheering on grandsons Michael, Jack and Nico at their water polo games, and looked forward to any funny story relating to his youngest grandchild, Tommy. Known for his sharp wit, George reveled in bringing a laugh to those around him. His kind, devoted and caring disposition served as an example to many and has left a treasured legacy to all who knew and loved him. He was a wonderful man who will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers remembrances may be made to St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church, 9165 Peets Street, Elk Grove, 95758.