Steve "Pro" Protonentis, 61

FREDERICA - Steve "Pro" Protonentis, of Frederica, passed away Wednesday, May 28, 2008, in his home surrounded by his loving family. He was 61.

He was born on March 17, 1947, in Perth Amboy, N.J., son of the late James and Martha (Manaticus) Protonentis.

Steve graduated from Perth Amboy High School in 1965, where he played football and had been a star wrestler.

Steve received a four-year college scholarship from Perth Amboy High School for wrestling and attended Montclair State where he received his bachelor's degree in education in 1969.

In 1998 he received his master's degree in education administration from Wilmington College.

He played semi-pro football for Boonton Bears of Boonton, N.J. from 1965-68.

Steve was very involved in Boy Scouts, was an Eagle Scout, Order of The Arrow, and Scout Master for Troop 911 of Milford.

He was an assistant football coach for Dover High School and was head junior varsity football coach.

Steve was also an assistant wrestling coach, track coach and bowling sponsor.

He was a member of the National Honor Society, Delaware Teachers Association, Capital Educators Association and Capital Administrators.

He was a former president and vice president of Milford Teachers Association.

Steve was also a member of the B.P.O. Elks Lodge of Milford and Dover.

He enjoyed pen and ink drawing.

Steve was principal of Central Middle School of the Capital School District from 2001-05.

He was an industrial arts teacher, dean of discipline and associate principal for Dover High School for a total of 27 years.

He is survived by his wife, Jackie (McLaughlin) Protonentis; two sons, Eric Protonentis of Frederica and Dirk Protonentis and his wife Ellen of Clarksville, Tenn.; a brother, Theodore Protonentis and his wife Sue of Rahway, N.J.; three grandchildren, Paige Protonentis, Danze Protonentis and Elizabeth Protonentis, all of Clarksville; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

Friends may call from 2-5 p.m. Wednesday in the Pippin Funeral Home, 119 West Camden-Wyoming Ave., Wyoming.

During this time, the family wishes Steve be remembered for his love of color and suggests guests dress in that spirit.

A private burial for family will follow.

A time of gathering and personal sharing to celebrate Steve's life will be held 6 p.m. Thursday in Dover High School.

The family requests no flowers and that memorial contributions be sent to the Steve Protonentis Scholarship Fund c/o athletic director, Dover High School, 1 Pat Lynn Drive, Dover DE 19901.

Letters of condolences may be sent via www.pippinfuneralhome.com.