Peter Kanelos

Peter J. Kanelos, 51, of San Diego, CA, passed away April 19, 2016, after a long, courageous battle with brain cancer. He was born in Casper, Wyoming on December 15, 1964, to James P. and Edith Kanelos. He graduated from Kelly Walsh High School and went on to receive a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science from University of California at San Diego. Pete first moved to San Diego in 1984 to attend Grossmont College where he served as Vice President and then President of the Associated Students, before transferring to UCSD. Pete's passion for politics led him to work on and manage a number of campaigns over the years, including successful efforts for Councilmembers Barry Jantz in La Mesa and Byron Wear in San Diego; and California Assembly Members Steve Baldwin, Jay La Suer and Joel Anderson, among many others. In 1993, Pete joined the San Diego-based political and public relations consulting firm of Schuman, Hoy & Wear as an account executive. Pete played a key role in the firm's many political and PR campaigns. He was known for his passion, hard work and relentless good humor. In 2002, Pete moved briefly to Washington, D.C. as consultant, then in 2003 accepted a public affairs position with Wal-Mart, where he directed political activities for the Western Region of the country. He subsequently founded the consulting firm Hermes Strategy Group In 2013, Pete took his final position as Policy Director for San Diego City Councilwoman Lorie Zapf. He was much-loved at City Hall and played a crucial role in laying the foundation for Councilwoman Zapf's legislative agenda. While working for Zapf, Pete was also responsible for many staff pranks, while providing amazing advice about Greeks and their culture. Pete always provided his political expertise and was dedicated to the success of his boss. Pete masterminded "Tony Hawk Day" and "Ralph Rubio Day," both major media successes. Pete also served in a volunteer role on the leadership team for Councilwoman Zapf's 2014 reelection campaign. Even though he learned of his cancer during the race, he remained a valued counselor to his colleagues. Later, after surgery and a few months recuperation, he returned to policy work and his self-appointed role as the chief instigator of merriment at City Hall. His final farewell party at the City Council, attended by several city councilmembers, was a bi-partisan affair filled with good food and warm embraces. Pete was an involved parishioner at both St. Gregory of Nyssa and St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Churches in the San Diego area. He was very proud of his Greek heritage and loved to cook. He also volunteered annually at the El Cajon Oktoberfest and Lakeside Parade. To the dismay of most of his friends in San Diego, Pete was a lifetime Raiders fan. Pete is survived by his parents, his brother Jim Kanelos, sisters Angie Woodward and Helene Rexius, as well as nephews Holden Rexius and Demetrios Kanelos, and niece Caiden Rexius. Pete's family and many friends will remember him for his big heart, incredible mind and wicked sense of humor. Those who knew Pete loved him because of his smile, brilliance, sense of humor and unwavering friendship. Visitation will begin at 7:30pm and the Trisagion Service at 8:30pm, at Bustard's Funeral Home, Sunday, April 24, 2016,. The Funeral Service will be conducted at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church on Monday, April 25, 2016, 11:00 a.m., with internment at Highland Cemetery to follow. Memorial contributions may be made to: Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church or The American Cancer Society.

Service

Monday, April 25, 2016 11:00am

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church

1350 East C

CASPER, WY 82601

Visitation

Sunday, April 24, 2016 7:30pm - 9:00pm

Bustard's Funeral Home

600 CY Avenue

Casper, Wyoming 82601