Search by Name

Search by Name

BORN

1926

DIED

2018

Peter DeStefano Obituary

Peter DeStefano died peacefully, surrounded by love at his home in Anchorage, Alaska, on June 5, 2018. He was 91.
Born to first generation Italian immigrants, Pete was the first in his family to graduate high school and college. In 1944, Pete became a medic in the U.S. Army during World War II. It was the start of a long, proud and successful military career, and the inspiration for many humorous stories.
In 1955, Pete met his wife of 62 years, Maggie, during U.S. Air Force laboratory officer training. He asked Maggie to marry him on every date, finally getting a yes on the seventh one. Pete and Maggie raised a family of five on Air Force bases in the U.S. and Japan. In 1971, Pete, believing that he was accepting an assignment in Germany, agreed to a transfer to Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska. Pete and Maggie were drawn to the beauty and wonder of Alaska, beginning a life-long love affair with the outdoors.
After retiring from the U.S. Air Force as a lieutenant colonel, Pete taught laboratory science at Anchorage Community College/University of Alaska until his retirement in 1985. Retirement was spent enjoying the outdoors and inspiring loved ones to live compassionate, honest, hardworking, curious and grateful lives. We are especially grateful to him for teaching us to laugh at our own jokes.
Pete is survived by his wife, Maggie; children, Margaret, Deedee (Rick), Ralph (Lori), Josie (Bill) and Ray (Heidi); sister, Norma (Richie); brother, Ralph (Alicia); and 11 grandchildren.
Please join us for funeral Mass on Tuesday, June 12, 2018, at 8:30 a.m., at the Holy Spirit Retreat Center in Anchorage. Interment to follow at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Catholic Social Services Alaska.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Anchorage Daily News from Jun. 10 to Jun. 12, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Peter DeStefano

Not sure what to say?





Chet Paris

July 5, 2018

Great guy! I will always remember his laugh. Since he was from where I grew up, we never had a lack of "stimulating" conversations. Pete lived a good life and his memory and spirit will always be with me.

Colleen Patrick-Riley

June 12, 2018

We feel so privileged to have known Pete. It was always a pleasure to spend time with Pete and Maggie, their daughter Margaret, and our dear friend Deedee and all her family. Pete had a great sense of humor, a twinkle in his eye, and a genuine curiosity and caring for others. I know that he was ready to go, but will be missed. Now every time that you take a walk, enjoy the sunrise and sunset, and laugh, you can feel his spirit near, and believe that he is celebrating life with you.

Jay & Tamara Childs

June 11, 2018

Our deepest condolences to the DeStefano family. It is never easy to lose a husband/father/grandfather, no matter your age. We pray for your peace and comfort as you continue your lives journey without Mr. DeStefano's earthly presence.

June 11, 2018

Condolences to the Destefano family. May the God of all comfort be with you during this time.

Julie Sopp

June 11, 2018

Mr. Pete brought many smiles to my little girl's face during Sunday Mass. One day I caught her making a silly face at Mr. Pete during Church and when I corrected her she let me know Mr. Pete made that silly face first! I glanced back at him and sure enough I caught him in the act! LOL! I'm pretty sure Mr. Pete and Ms. Maggie have been the reason my little girl loves to attend Sunday Mass.
The world has lost an angel but Heaven gained one To the entire DeStefano family you are in our prayers. May the memories of Mr. Pete bring you continued smiles and comfort. Peace be with all of you!!

June 11, 2018

Sending my condolences to your family. May prayer be a great comfort to you during this time 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Paul Macke

June 10, 2018

I will offer Mass for Pete-a good man. Fr. Paul Macke, S.J.

June 8, 2018

I am so sorry for your loss. May you find comfort from the loving promise of seeing our dear loved ones (John 6:40). Please accept my deepest condolences.

Linda Mc

June 7, 2018

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. May the fond memories of your loved one sustain your family at this time. May you also receive comfort from what is stated at 1 Peter 5:6,7.

Showing 1 - 9 of 9 results

Make a Donation
in Peter DeStefano's name

Memorial Events
for Peter DeStefano

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Peter's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Peter DeStefano's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more