November 1, 1928 – June 9, 2026
With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life lived with generosity, curiosity, and unwavering love, we share the passing of George Konton—a cherished father, brother, uncle, godfather, and friend. George passed away peacefully at his home in Los Altos on June 9, 2026, at the age of 97, with his daughter by his side.
Born on November 1, 1928, on the picturesque island of Nisyros, Greece, George was the youngest child of Nikitas and Kaliope (Konstantinidis) Samos. From an early age, he displayed a vibrant spirit and an enduring curiosity about the world—qualities that would carry him across continents and shape a remarkable life story.
In 1946, after completing his education in Greece, George bravely immigrated to the United States, where he later served his adopted country in the U.S. Army. His life changed forever in San Francisco, where he met Maryann, the love of his life. Their paths first crossed on the soccer field—George playing for the Greek-American team and Maryann’s father coaching for the Maltese-American team. Their love story officially began on October 3, 1953, when they married on what they fondly remembered as the hottest day of the year.
George and Maryann began their married life in East Palo Alto before settling in Los Altos, where they created a warm and welcoming home that became the heart of their family. Their union, which spanned nearly seven decades until Maryann’s passing in March 2023, was a testament to their devotion, resilience, and shared adventures.
For 33 years, George worked at Hewlett-Packard Company as a Quality Assurance Technician. His meticulous nature, strong work ethic, and quiet integrity earned him the respect of colleagues and friends alike. Beyond his professional life, George was committed to his community. He was an active member of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in San Jose and proudly participated in the Order of AHEPA and the Palo Alto Elks Lodge #1471. In his later years, he found joy in visiting the Los Altos Senior Center each day for spirited games of Bridge and time spent working on the community puzzle.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, George delighted in cheering for the San Francisco 49ers and attending Giants games with his wife and children. A treasured family memory was the night he and Maryann appeared on the Giants’ scoreboard during the beloved “Kiss Cam” segment. Together, they explored the beauty and diversity of the continental United States, Canada, and Mexico in their cherished motorhome, creating memories that became part of their family’s legacy.
George is predeceased by his parents, Nikitas and Kaliope Samos, and his beloved wife, Maryann (Sherry) Konton. He leaves behind a legacy of love in his surviving family: his son, Joseph Konton of Mountain View; his daughter, Mary Jayne of Los Altos; his sister, Mina Masters of Sunnyvale; and his sister-in-law, Joan Sherry of Palm Harbor, Florida. He is also lovingly remembered by his 10 nieces and nephews and five godchildren. He was preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Virginia (Sherry) Busuttil, and his brothers-in-law, Michael Masters, Dominic Busuttil, and John Sherry.
The family extends heartfelt appreciation to Stanford Hospital, The Terraces at Los Altos, Bristol Hospice, and Annie Stephanos for their compassionate care and support during George’s final days.
Services were arranged by Spangler Mortuary in Los Altos. George is interred at Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery in Los Altos Hills. Those wishing to honor his memory may consider a donation to Takis Animal Shelter on the island of Crete, Greece: https://takisshelter.org/donate
George will be remembered always for his warm smile, his boundless curiosity, and his steadfast devotion to family and friends. His memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.
