Ellsworth “Pete” E. Eberth of Federal Way died Feb. 18 at St. Francis Hospital in Federal Way. He was 93.

He was born on Dec. 2, 1911 in Chicago, Ill. In 1933, he graduated as an electrical engineer from Armor Technical College and married Marion (Pat), his wife of 70 years. 

In 1940, the couple moved from Chicago to Burbank, Calif., when he took a position at Lockheed.

After World War II, he invented California Fireplace Crystals, a chemical mixture that caused fireplace flames to burn in different colors. This led to his owning a business that imported decor items. He sold the business and retired in 1967. The couple moved from Burbank to Lakeside, Ore. and began traveling the world. 

After 25 years, they moved to Federal Way and then Milton, to be closer to their daughter and granddaughters. They lived at Surprise Lake until his wife’s death in July 2004. He then moved to Foundation House in Federal Way.

Survivors include a daughter, Joan Sells of Vashon Island; two grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

There will be no funeral service. At the suggestion of the family, contributions may be made to a favorite charity in the Eberths’ memory.

Arrangements were by Bonney-Watson in SeaTac. An on-line memorial can be signed at www.bonneywatson.com