Eugene "Pete" Kondis

Eugene “Pete” Kondis, age 96, of Rochester, Michigan, passed away Thursday, November 19, 2020 of Covid complications. Pete was born on August 16, 1924 in Munhall, Pennsylvania, the youngest of Stephen and Mary (Dargo’s) ten children. He is predeceased by his parents and siblings Stephen, Joseph, Andrew, Mary, Bert, Francis, Magadelene, Julius and Anna. He is also preceded in death this past March by his beloved wife of almost 76 years, Betty. Munhall High School sweethearts, Betty and Pete married in June, 1944 prior to Pete shipping out to service in World War II. As a B24 waist gunner, he flew 31 missions with the Army Air Corps while stationed in England.

Returning to Pittsburgh after the war, Pete attended Carnegie Tech. And, after graduating with a degree in Printing, he moved to Detroit and later Birmingham, to pursue his career first with Singer-Motschall Printing and then James Motschall Printing while also teaching printing classes through the Graphic Arts Guild. 1975 brought a move to San Mateo and later Napa California where he ran Fleming-Potter’s wine label print operations, until he retired (reluctantly) at age 75.

Pete lived his life devoted to Betty and their family. He is survived by daughter Karen (Mark) Clemons, grandson Andrew (Emily Swanson), and many treasured nieces and nephews. His enthusiasm for his work in his chosen field, along with a passion for all things musical, or related to wine, history or baseball made spending time with Pete a pure delight. He had a boundless sense of humor as well as a wonderful combination of kindness, gentleness and joy that will always be remembered.

In lieu of flowers, friends who wish to, may contribute to the charity of their choice or to St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 620 Romeo St., Rochester, MI 48308, where Pete was a member for two decades. There are no services planned at this time. Please feel free to share of memory of Pete with the family.