AUBURN — Peter J. Balis, 64, of Lewiston, left this life on Wednesday, Aug. 1, after a brief struggle with cancer to be with his parents Victor and Mabel Balis. Mr. Balis was educated in the Lewiston schools, graduating in 1966. In 1970, he graduated from the University of Houston with a degree in Psychology.

As a youth, Pete spent several summers at the Poland Spring Caddy Camp earning the distinction of being an honor caddy. It was this experience that fostered Peter’s life long love for the game of golf.

During one summer break from Houston, Pete was the Acting Golf Professional at Poland Spring Golf Course. After returning from college, Peter began a 30 year career as a chef and restaurateur, owning and operating many local restaurants including: No Tomatoes (routinely a top rated Maine restaurant) with the Garden Lounge and Cellar Door, Seventeen Park St., Lou’s Place, Beverage World, Dundees and Prime Plus One.

Pete is survived by his son, Josh and his wife, Rung, who currently live in Rangeley. Over the last several years, the bond between Peter and Josh grew very close. As Josh became a young man, Peter became a proud father, sharing with his friends Josh’s world travels, including meeting his wife and owning a restaurant in Thailand, and becoming a professional golfer. Peter is also survived by Josh’s mother, Jane Balis, who Peter had maintained a friendship with for many years. Peter’s other love was his Standard Poodles, Captain, King, Ishka, Gizmo and Spice.