In Memoriam 1937 - 2006

Innovation always seemed to come naturally to Aqua founder Charles Condy. Business-savvy and entrepreneurial, Charles saw a common theme in every one of his diverse endeavors. Whether he was creating energy alternatives or restaurants, Charles's philosophy was simple. "Businesses all rest on the same three pillars," he once said. "The right location. The right people. Your good business sense."

The father of four and grandfather of nine had been a pioneer in the geothermal energy industry for over twenty-five years when he became a restaurateur with the high-profile launch of Aqua in 1991. Charles went on to emulate Aqua's roaring success with a number of sophisticated restaurants renowned throughout the world. Neighborhood gem Charles Nob Hill opened in 1996 to popular acclaim, followed by Las Vegas hits Aqua at Bellagio and Nob Hill at MGM Grand. In September 1999, Burlingame's Pisces brought casual, contemporary seafood to the Bay Area's Peninsula, and in July 2001, Charles ventured further south to Dana Point, California with Aqua at The St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort & Spa. C & L, San Francisco's upscale steakhouse, joined the lineup in the fall of 2004, with lively Café de la Presse close on its heels in the summer of 2005.

Philanthropy was also a major force in his life. As founder of the geothermal industry giant the California Energy Company, Charles tirelessly lent his skills to task forces, councils and forums in the United States and abroad, winning the National Outstanding Achievement Award from Renew America and an invitation by the Department of Energy to serve on Presidential missions to India and South Africa.

Further, Charles and his wife Mary were longtime supporters of Meals on Wheels programs in cities throughout the nation. In 1997, the Condys founded the Sunriver Culinary Classic. This annual event convened four-star chefs in the mountain resort of Sunriver, Oregon, where the Condys made their home, to benefit the Meals on Wheels program in Central Oregon.

Charles's love for food and passion for cooking created a strong legacy in his family, who continue his work at Aqua and related ventures.