D. Peter “Pete” Konichek, age 69, of Bainbridge Island, died May 1 after a fight with cancer.

Born Dec. 18, 1933 in Roanoke, Va., to Capt. D.H. Konichek, C.G.S.C., and Clara Berg Konichek, he spent his early years traveling the contiguous United States and Alaska with the military service of his father. He attended 47 primary schools and five high schools, graduating the first time at age 14, then again at age 15.

He attended North Carolina State, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and another in physics, then continued his education at the University of Washington, earning advanced degrees in physics, nuclear engineering and nuclear physics.

In the summers before World War II, the family shipped to Alaska, where his father was in charge of surveying a great deal of the territory of what would become the 49th state. They lived in remote areas reached only by boat, camping in tents, and befriending the local native and Russian populations.

Later, during his career with Boeing Computer Services, he was deeply involved in the then-top secret computer design and development of the B-2 Stealth bomber.

A longtime member of the United States Sail and Power Squadron, he rose to the rank of Commander of the Agate Pass Sail and Power Squadron. He was an avid sailor and power boater.

His first love was learning, and he collected books on all subjects, acquiring a huge library on subjects, including military history, philosophy, science fiction and general history. He loved to teach.

He is survived by his son, Anthony “Tony” Konichek, of Seattle; and his longtime companion and “First Mate,” Liz Murray of Bainbridge Island.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the American Cancer Society.