Obituary of Pete Pontikis

Pete Pontikis, 79, of Herndon, Va, passed away on October 26, 2023 after an 8 month battle with glioblastoma.

Pete was born on January 30, 1944 (officially recorded as February 27, 1944) to Anastasios and Spiradoula Pontikis in Lygia, Preveza, Greece.

After enlisting and finishing his military obligations, Pete joined the merchant marines and traveled the world by sea, eventually landing in Baltimore in 1972. Pete took the necessary steps to become a US citizen in 1976 and settled down in northern Virginia.

Once settled in Virginia, Pete started and maintained a successful construction business. Wanting to slow down after 35 years, he decided to take his knowledge to Home Depot, where he spent 10 years before retiring in 2012.

Retirement didn't last long, as in March of 2013 and again in December of 2014 he was introduced to his favorite, most challenging and most rewarding role, Papou. He also kept himself busy with beekeeping, and could often be found outside tending to his hives. Ask anyone who's tried it and they'll tell you his was the best honey they've tasted.

Pete was predeceased by his parents Anastasios and Spiradoula, brothers Zisis and Thanasis and longtime partner Fotini. He is survived by son Mihalis Pontikis, son Konstantinos Pontikis and long time partner Jennie Shaddinger, grandsons Elliot and Isaac, brother Theodoris and sisters Eleni and Demitra.

Services will be held at Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox Church, 21580 Atlantic BLVD, #160, Dulles, VA 20166, Friday November 3rd. Viewing at 10am, service at 11am. Burial at Chestnut Grove Cemetery in Herndon at around 12:30pm. Makaria (traditional Greek meal) at Mediterranean Breeze in Ashburn at 1:30pm.

The family is requesting not to send flowers but rather bring pictures and stories you have of Pete.