Obituary

The Honorable C. Gus Kwidis passed peacefully on Thursday, April 13^th, surrounded by his family.

Born on January 22, 1945 in Sewickley, he was the son of the late Constantine and Alexandria Kwidis. He was in preceded in death by his brother, Milton C. Kwidis. He is survived by his wife and “koukla”, Eileen (Dolly); two sons, Christopher and Dean (Dana) Kwidis; three granddaughters and Papou’s princesses, Kylee, Eleni, and Alexi; nephews, CJ (Ellen), Matthew and Sam Kwidis; cousin, Cathy Musone; nephew and Godson, Jason (Edna) Musone; brothers-in-law, Dale (Linda) and Mark (Renee) Gliptis.

Gus was a graduate of Ambridge High School.  During his adolescent years, he had spent much of his time working for his Uncle George Kazel’s painting company.  After graduation, he attended West Virginia University and the University of Toledo Law School.

As the first Greek American member of the Beaver County Bar Association, Gus began working as a law clerk for the late Judge Rowley from 1969-1971.   After completing his clerkship, Gus worked as an Assistant Public Defender for a year before joining the District Attorney’s office in 1972. From 1972 – 1976, he was also an associate in the law firm of Wallover, Reed & Steff.  He established his own practice in 1976 and for the next 25 years primarily engaged in the defense of civil liability claims. He also served as solicitor for a number of local municipalities, as well as for McGuire Memorial Home. He is also a past president of the Beaver County Bar Association.  He was first appointed as a Judge to the Court of Common Pleas in 2001 by Governor Tom Ridge. He then retained the seat through election and eventual retention, retiring as a Senior Judge.   As the first Greek-American on the court, he often said the judgeship was the pinnacle of his 50-year legal career. Gus enjoyed the privilege of officiating countless weddings and sharing his knowledge and love for the law through the mock trial program.  He also served on the board of directors at McGuire Memorial Home and Seven Oaks Country Club, served as chanter and was past council president at his church, Holy Trinity.

Gus enjoyed golfing, doing yard work, relaxing by the pool, listening to oldies, having a good meal and a cup of coffee, and spending time with his family.  His commanding presence, classic “one-liners”, and love for his family will be missed.

There will be a private ceremony for immediate family members.  The Trisagion service will take place at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church with the Father Anastasios Athansiou officiating.  Tributes can be made to the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 2930 Beaver Road, Ambridge PA 15003.

The GABAUER-TODD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES (Branch), 340 Third St., Beaver, was honored to assist Gus’ family during this time.