George Konton

With heavy hearts yet deep gratitude for a life lived with passion and kindness, we share the passing of George Konton, a beloved father, brother, uncle, and friend. George passed away peacefully at his home in Los Altos on June 9, 2026, at the age of 97, with his devoted daughter at his bedside. Born on November 1, 1928, in the picturesque village of Nisyros, Greece, George was the cherished son of Nikitas and Kaliope (Konstantinidis) Samos. From a young age, George exhibited a vibrant spirit and an enduring curiosity about the world, traits that would guide him through a remarkable journey across continents and cultures. In 1946, after completing his education in Greece, George courageously immigrated to the United States, where he would eventually serve his adopted country in the U.S. Army. It was in San Francisco that George's fate intertwined with that of Maryann, the love of his life. Their paths crossed on the soccer field, where George played for the Greek-American team, and Maryann’s father coached for the Maltese-American team. Their love story officially began on October 3, 1953, when they married on what they fondly recalled as the hottest day of the year. George and Maryann began their married life in East Palo Alto, later settling in Los Altos, where they built a warm and welcoming home that became the heart of their family. Their union, spanning nearly seven decades until Maryann's passing in March 2023, was a testament to their mutual devotion and shared adventures. For 33 years, George dedicated his career to Hewlett-Packard Company as a Quality Assurance Technician, where his meticulous nature and unwavering work ethic earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues. Beyond his professional life, George was deeply committed to his community, actively participating in St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in San Jose and holding memberships with the Order of AHEPA and the Palo Alto Elks Lodge #1471. A true sports enthusiast, George found joy in cheering on the San Francisco 49ers and attending Giants games with his children. A memorable highlight was his presence at the 1989 World Series, a cherished event he shared with his loved ones. Together with Maryann, he explored the beauty and diversity of the continental United States, Canada, and Mexico in their treasured motorhome, creating memories that would last a lifetime. George is predeceased by his loving parents, Nikitas and Kaliope Samos, and his dear wife, Maryann Konton. He leaves behind a legacy of love in his surviving family: his son Joseph Konton of Mountain View and daughter Mary Jayne of Los Altos, his sister Mina Masters, sister-in-law Joan Sherry, 10 nieces and nephews, and five godchildren who were all blessed to share in his remarkable life. The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to Stanford Hospital, the Terraces in Los Altos, and Bristol Hospice for their compassionate care and support during George’s final days. Services were arranged by Spangler Mortuary in Los Altos. He is interred at Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery. Those who wish to remember George in a special way may give a gift in his memory to Takis Animal Shelter in Crete, Greece - https://takisshelter.org/donate George Konton will forever be remembered for his warm smile, his boundless curiosity, and his dedication to family and community. His memory will remain a guiding light for those who were fortunate enough to know and love him.