Where Caring Is A Family Tradition
Where Caring Is A Family Tradition
George was called home to Heaven on Wednesday, November 21, 2018, to join the love of his life, Merle. He passed away at the age of 94.
Born on December 31, 1923, George began his life in Chicago, Illinois before finding his roots in Butte des Morts, Wisconsin. He was a child of James and Kaliroy (Skouvakis) Kontos. He graduated from Oshkosh High School in 1941 then attended college in Beaver Dam before enlisting into the U.S. Navy in 1942. George served his country as a Navy Corpsman before returning to Butte des Morts and meeting the love of his life. He soon married Merle, remaining dedicated to her until his last day.
In the years that followed his return from the war, George became a pillar of the community. He owned and operated Jimmie's White House Inn, operated Kontos Real Estate as a realtor and developer, served as Chief of Police to the town of Winneconne, and dedicated his time to numerous additional community services. George, with his brother Tom, donated the land for Lord of the Lakes Lutheran Church and were instrumental in the development of the church itself.
George was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Merle; his brother, Tom; and sister, Lillian.
George is survived by his children, Kathy (Bruce) Hergert, of Butte des Morts; Jim (Susie) Kontos, of Florida; Janet (Ed) Veith, of Larsen; his grandchildren, Nick (Amy) Hergert, of Omro; Lindsay (Zack) Hepner, of Milwaukee; Kelsey (Derek) Hanneman, of Larsen; Jordan Veith, of Larsen; Alex Kontos, of Florida; Chris Kontos, of Florida; and his great-grandchild, Tanner Groshek, of Omro. George was the happiest when surrounded by his loving family.
Cremation has taken place and a visitation for family and friends will be on Friday, November 30, 2018, from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Lord of the Lakes Lutheran Church 6090 Harbour South (corner of Harbour South and Hwy 116) Winneconne. A funeral service will be held on Friday at 5:30 p.m. at the church with Pastor Kevin Heffernan officiating. Military honors will then take place and a gathering of friends and memories will follow at the church.
Per George's wishes, in lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for donations to various organizations and may directed to the George Kontos Memorial at West Pointe Bank, Oshkosh.
If you wish please submit online condolences to muellerfuneralhomeinc.com.
Billie (Wilma) Snell wrote on December 1, 2018
My husband Bud (deceased) and I met George and Merle when we spent the winters in Florida. We instantly hit it off and became friends.
we had many good times together. The 4 of us went on a cruise together..a funtime. After Merle's passing, George came for many meals at our house. We dearly loved them both. I know he is happy now to be with his beloved Merle. He loved her so very much and pined his loss of her, always telling me that in our phone calls. My sincere condolences to the family of a good friend.
Fred Pinkerton wrote on November 28, 2018
To Janet........ Very sorry to hear that George passed away.
Just want you to know that your Dad was at the center of some of the ....best fun......the best drinks.....and the best food......for many years of my life. I quit smoking and put my last pack of Salems in front of your Dad.....at the bar at Jimmie's 1982....Rest In Peace, George
Tom and Stacy Pethke wrote on November 25, 2018
Randy is right saying George was a remarkable man. He was a supportive friend of our family, always staying in touch even when God called us into ministry. We will miss him terribly, already do. Sending many prayers to Kathy, Bruce, Jim, Susie, Janet, Ed and all his family. He loved you very much. We know he is resting in God's arms and celebrating his reunion with Merle. God Bless.
Jaack Erkilla wrote on November 25, 2018
George was a loving, caring, friendly person. I had the privilege of being with George as a close friend for over 50 years. He will be missed by all his many friends.
Randy Domer wrote on November 25, 2018
A remarkable man I feel fortunate to have known. I always admired George's wit and straight forward approach to most everything. He said what was on his mind so you always knew where he stood on things. I will miss George and so will the entire community of Butte des Morts
Kimberly Radtke wrote on November 24, 2018
George was a good friend from church. We served on council together. He lived a great life. He will be missed.