Michael William Kononitz

Michael "Bill" W. Kononitz 1919-2012Springfield- Michael W. Kononitz, 92, died Friday, September 7, 2012 in the Soldiers' Home in Holyoke. Born on December 1, 1919 he was a lifelong resident of Springfield.  He was a 1937 graduate of Springfield Trade High School and was an Allstar center in football. Bill was a Tech Sgt. in the Army during WWII having served in Europe. He owned and operated the California Market for over 30 years and also worked in the maintenance department at the Municipal Hospital in Springfield for 10 years, retiring in 1984. Bill was a member of the Elks Club in Springfield and a semi pro football player for the Springfield Acorns in the 1940s and 50s. He loved animals and was very caring and supportive of animal rescue, contributing to many animal organizations. Bill was predeceased by his wife of over 65 years, Helen B. (Wagner) Kononitz, who died in May of 2006. He leaves 2 sons; M. David Kononitz and his wife Constance of Hernando, FL, and William J. Kononitz and his wife Karen of Tampa, FL, a nephew Paul Kononitz and his wife Carol of Longmeadow, 5  grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and 1 great great-grandson. Calling hours will be held from 10-11:30 on Tuesday, September 11, 2012 at the Tylunas Funeral Home 159 Broadway, Chicopee, followed by a service in the parlor at 11:30am. Burial in Massachusetts Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Agawam.  Donations may be made to Dakin Animal Shelter, PO Box 6037, Springfield, MA 01101 or The Holyoke Soldiers' Home, 110 Cherry St., Holyoke, MA 01040. For more information visit tylunasfuneralhome.com.Tylunas Funeral Home413-592-0148