Peter John Katsoudas

Born in the coastal village of Kiveri, Greece, on August 2, 1936, Peter’s early years were marked by poverty and the horrors of war, including surviving the Nazi occupation of his village during World War II. These early hardships forged in him a spirit of resilience and determination that defined his remarkable life.

At age 19, Peter immigrated to the United States through a sponsorship program, arriving in 1956 with just borrowed shoes and an unshakeable belief in the American dream. He lived with his uncle and aunt in Redding, California, where he attended Shasta High School, learning English and eventually graduating with honors. True to a promise made to his aunt, he pursued higher education and proudly served in the U.S. Navy, including a combat tour in Vietnam as a Swift Boat officer.

Peter earned his MBA and went on to become a respected executive in the banking industry during the rise of Silicon Valley. Among his notable achievements was helping launch the original Master Charge credit card—now known as MasterCard.

In 1967, Peter married the love of his life, Vana. Together they built a beautiful life in California, raising two children, John and Elizabeth, and later enjoying the blessings of four grandchildren, Nikolas, Connor, Angelina, and Liam Peter. His family was the light of his life and the proudest measure of his success.

Peter never forgot his roots. He remained deeply connected to his Greek heritage, spending cherished summers in his beloved hometown of Kiveri, where he and Vana built a second home during their retirement. He was a pillar of the Greek American community and remained active in church and cultural life throughout his life.

A visitation for Peter will be held Thursday, June 5, 2025 at 6:30 PM with Trisagion at 7:00PM at Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 1260 Davis St, San Jose, CA 95126, where the Funeral will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025 at 10:30AM. Interment immediately following at Mission City Memorial Park.