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Peter Athas Obituary
Miami, FL
Peter Garrett Athas, 68, of Miami, Florida passed away on Sunday, June 28th. Peter was born in New Jersey and moved with his family to Miami when he was two years old. Pete played professional football for the New York Giants from 1971-1974 as a defensive corner. After leaving New York, he played for the Cleveland Browns for one year and the New Orleans Saints for one year. He retired to live in Miami.
Survivors include Rebecca Athas Henry; son, Peter Athas, Jr.; stepson, Mike Henry; brother-in-law, Larry Henry; sister-in-law, Judy Henry; granddaughter, Tyler Athas; grandson, Trey Athas.
Family and friends are gathering at Miami Shores Country Club, 1000 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami Shores, Florida 33180, Friday July 10th from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Peter Athas
William Reno
June 29, 2023
Pete was a dear friend of mine. So sad that he passed. We graduated in the same year from Miami Edison Senior High School Class of 1964.
Chaplain Bill Reno
Jim Keen
January 15, 2023
Rest in Peace my Edison Red Raider brother. I played at Edison in the early 70's.
ST
November 3, 2022
Watching some old Giants games and I was reminded of the joy with which Pete played football. I became a defensive back and played through college, in part, because of number 45. He was pretty cool.
January 25, 2017
Loved our times at UT and in Blowing Rock, Pete
RIP
Sandy Brown Dunn
Cynthia Sobel Gerard
April 25, 2016
Pete was my treehouse buddy in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. My sister Sheila & I remember Pete's handsome Greek looks as we grew closer during those summer mountain adventures. Having a crush on Peter Athas was inevitable. His energy, sense of humor and quick wit will always stand out in my mind. Rest in peace sweet friend. See you in the big treehouse in the sky.
Marcie McGahey Cecil
April 5, 2016
Pete ! What a fantastic memory I have of you as we were kids loving life at the Miami Shores Community House. You were bold and extreme in all sports especially football.You were kind and funny and fairly tolerant with me as YOU took the time to teach me ping pong and knock hockey!! I still play ping pong to this day!! I so admired you.
mary beth neary
April 3, 2016
my cousin, my hero, big brother. will always love you. May you find peace. Praying that the news i heard this evening is mistaken but in my heart i fear it is true. May you and little peter find light and happiness.
tyler athas
January 25, 2016
miss you
October 20, 2015
Always a fan favorite.
October 19, 2015
RIP
Mac Price
October 16, 2015
Pete and I played little league baseball in Blowing Rock NC when we were kids. So sorry to hear of his passing...Lots of great memories.
October 6, 2015
October 6, 2015
Sylvia Thomas
October 3, 2015
Pete Athas #45 was one of my first favorite players in pro football. I was 15 years old and said who is that guy with all the hair? I was a fan and sorry to hear of his passing. My thoughts and prayers to his family.
Beth Maitlen
September 30, 2015
Pete Athas was a natural athlete. I met Pete in Orlando when he was playing ball with my then husband, Danny Maitlen. This was
prior to professional football. I think it was called...a Continental league...Orlando Panthers?...neverthe less...Danny was good friends with Pete. We all were in Orlando, Danny, a great running back, Pete, a great corner back. Pete made it to the Giants. The last time I had heard of Pete Athas, was that he scored a touch down for the Giants in a coma/head injury.
Recently & coincidently, I found the where abouts of Pete, thru my friend Jerry, in NMB. Made plans to say, Hello, after all these years. Regret not doing it. May Pete & Danny rest in peace. Two great football players!
Nick
September 6, 2015
Growing up in New Jersey as a Giants fan and as a Greek American, he was my favorite player. He was fearless on the field making tackles and returning punts. He was unique, colorful and cool. So sorry to hear of his passing. He will be missed. May his memory be eternal.
September 4, 2015
May God Bless his soul . Watched him when I was a boy , when he played with the Giants . Used to put his name on the back of my shirts . RIP Pete
Joseph Liverano
September 4, 2015
May God Bless his soul . So sorry to hear of his passing . I enjoyed watching him when I was boy , when he played for the Giants . RIP Pete !
Joe Abernethy
July 31, 2015
I worked at Wagon Wheel @8yrs old clean n off tables Peter was bout 14. Growing up he was my hero, racin cars, surfing, playing in NFl, he's still my hero, always smiling, Peter you will be missed.
Michael Shetzer
July 30, 2015
I met Pete while I was on summer break from USC on Hilton Head Island, SC when Pete was on the way to his first training camp with the NY Giants. During his tenure with the Giants I went to the Giants-Redskins game at RFK each year he played for Giants. This was a magical experience for me as was coming up to NYC to see the Big Apple with Pete as a guide. We lost touch and I recently tried to reconnect to discover I am too late. He was a colorful & gregarious character and I was blessed to have know him. See ya on the other side Pete...
Joe Lineberger
July 27, 2015
Pete & I had many fine times in Blowing Rock, NC where his parents had a restaurant. RIP Pete.
Louis Economopoulos
July 22, 2015
My deepest condolences to the family of Pete Athas. All of us from the Sparta area of Greece pay our respects as his ancestors came from our parts. And I will remember him granting me an interview after a New York Giants exhibition game in Princeton, one of my first journalism successes. I've posted it on YouTube for all to hear. May we all remember him always.
From Pete's first NFl football card. A great photo.
Dan McNamara
July 21, 2015
Pete was my first cousin. His mom was my dad's sister. Although I only met Pete a few times, he was kind of an idol to me growing up as kid in North Jersey. I've always liked researching and finding bits about his life and career. I still do. Even if we were out of touch, we talked about and thought about Pete all the time. He'll be missed by all of his family members, and everyone who knew him. Rest in peace, Pete.
Jim Athas
July 19, 2015
I want to express my sympathy in Pete's passing. He will be missed by all.
Simmons Dave
July 14, 2015
I was so sad to hear of Pete's passing....what a great Red Raider who loved good fun, his friends and family. He was truly one of a kind and will always be remembered. Take care buddy and RIP.
Colleen Gordon
July 14, 2015
Miss you even more now. One of your cousins in NJ, Colleen McNamara
Edward Peters
July 13, 2015
Sorry for your loss. Played high school football together. Edward Peters
July 12, 2015
I am so sad to hear the news of my cousin Peter. We shared so many early days together in Miami and Blowing Rock. May God bless him and all of his family during this time of great sorrow. Love, Dicky
Marty Schulz
July 12, 2015
You were the life of the party! My condolences to the family! RIP Pete!
Randy Perini
July 12, 2015
Great fun guy...terrible loss. Always had you laughing will surely be missed.
Cheryl Kilgore
July 12, 2015
May your cherished memories bring you comfort and peace.
Cyndi Conley
July 11, 2015
Becky and Peter, so sorry to hear about your loss, all of his friends in Blowing Rock will miss him. We had great times growing up.
Al Argomaniz
July 11, 2015
My sincere condolences to his family. Pete was a great guy in every way.
Tom Hurst
July 11, 2015
Sincere condolences to Pete's family. Gifted in so many ways....one of the good guys at heart who always greeted you with enthusiastic smile and hand shake. When I think of Pete, I start humming "My Way". A pillar of our MEHS class that will be remembered always. Rest in peace, Pete.
David Zimroth
July 11, 2015
Played some pick-up basketball games with Pete at the Notth Miami HS gym. Was a very tough guy to play against. RIP.
Rod
July 10, 2015
So sad to hear of Pete's death. He was one of a kind and always kept you laughing with his naturally confident ways and quick wit. He did life his way and never looked back. My prayers go out to Becky, son Peter and all the family.
Jim Wilk
July 10, 2015
Athletically gifted, tough as nails with a heart of gold. Thanks for the fun and friendship, Peter. Fortunate to have known you.
Bob Gallagher
July 10, 2015
Viaje con Dios mi Amigo!!
July 10, 2015
Becky, Sorry for your loss, you hang in there, be strong.
Miss you
Charter OttO
July 10, 2015
I was very saddened to hear of Peter's passing. Pete was my moms brothers son, my cousin. Sending thoughts and prayers to his family❤
July 9, 2015
I'm very saddened to hear the news of Peters passing. He was my my moms brothers son and my cousin. Please know the family are in my thoughts and prayers!!
Sheila Du Bois
July 9, 2015
All who knew Peter realized that he was a sensitive big hearted guy, no matter how tumultuous his life became. We enjoyed good times thru Hi school and early college. He was always in the limelight with his athletic ability and personality! Especially surfing thru out the U.S., along with his surfer buds....he taught me to surf off 1st St. pier M.B.(SOBE now). We also frequented his parents restaurant in Bay Harbor 'The de'Continental', a well kept classic dining secret enjoyed by the elite and many stars of the day. Along with their restaurant in Blowing Rock,NC, 'The Wagon Wheel'. Both were started be his grandparents. LIFE was GOD! Peter, was loved by his parents and grandparents...And all who knew him! He will always have a place in my heart, along with many precious memories. Sending blessings and love to his family and friends, knowing he is at peace. Fondly, Sheila DuBois
Brenda Carnes
July 9, 2015
Becky, I am so sorry for your loss. I am thinking of you during this sad time. YHS64.
Jim and Sharon Williams McCoy
July 9, 2015
So sorry for your loss Becky. Our love to you.
Ron & Regina Akelaitis
July 9, 2015
Pete you will be missed here on earth , but you are now with friends and family that have gone on before us.Eternal peace to you and your family.
Bob Reynolds
July 9, 2015
Pound for Pound one of the best to play any sport! He was a great guy and a loyal Red Raider. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.
Dale Matthews
July 9, 2015
Pete, I was so sad when I received a call that you had passed. I immediately started thinking of all the good times that we had together. I remembered all the good times we had going to the Bayshore Whale and Sail, The Jockey Club and the Toast and don't forget the Playboy Club. You and I became very close friends, even moving in as roommates at one point. You nickname me Matt-A-Mundo. You will be missed deeply and you'll always be in my thoughts my friend. My thoughts and prayers are with Becky and the rest of your family.
Donn Lithgow
July 8, 2015
Sorry to hear about Pete's passing. He was
a nice guy with a great sense of humor. I have fond memories of growing up in Maimi
Shores, Edison, Palm Bay Club, LaGorce &
most recently playing golf in Blowing Rock
with the Pickard twin's & sipping martini's
on the deck. With deepest sympathy,
Ralph Sanabria
July 7, 2015
Our prayers go out to Pete's family from all of our Red Raiders.
Bill Sopher
July 7, 2015
GREAT FRIEND,a natural athlete who did it "HIS WAY" Condolences to his family.
Robert Mercer
July 7, 2015
Remembering all those trips to Cocoa Beach with You and Stuart Duffy. Great times. You will be missed.
Harry Hann
July 6, 2015
The one person from Edison that I always was running into on the road in New York,Boston,Chicago,Las Vegas was Pete. We weren't close but I always admired his athleticism and he always admired my musicianship and he would tell me so. Coming from Athas it was always a huge compliment. Rest in Peace Peter.
Nancy Stanczyk
July 6, 2015
Pete had a unique combination of wit, athletic ability, and charm. He will be missed. RIP. Condolences to his family.
July 6, 2015
To Pete's family and friends,
I am so sorry for your loss and since I was a friend too, I feel sad that he has passed. Although I rarely saw him since moving to Birminham in 1967, he has remained in my memory bank. Such a kind and gentle person and of course a man of few words(SMILE)Pete you will be missed. It was my pleasure knowing you.
Nell Emile Henderson
Red Raider Class of '63
Birmingham, Alabama
jb
July 6, 2015
You will be missed all fun times on 7th ave mayfair, donovans spinning those great tales and peteisms like stronger than a garlic milkshake.Brought much humor to table and be greatly missed always ur bud jb
Suzie Cowie de Miranda
July 6, 2015
I'm saddened and shocked to hear of Pete's passing. Such a great athlete and "charming" guy. We were classmates at MESH. Always a smile and friendly word. Condolences to his family and many friends! Peace to all who knew him.
July 6, 2015
my dad Fletcher McLane football coach at Edison..he was friends of my brother fletcher jr rest in peace
Peggy Green
July 6, 2015
He was my first crush at Horace Mann. The last time I saw him was so many years ago at Copa City. I am so sad to hear of his passing. May peace come to his loved ones. His peace is assured.
July 6, 2015
Will be attending the event at M.S.C.C.,next to the Community House where Pete and I dropped a lot of sweat playing unlimited football. Many memories of a gifted athlete and a person of great energy.
David Harrington / Miami Lakes
Andy Tillman
July 6, 2015
Pete and I played football together from Pee-wee through Edison HS. He was the best natural athlete on a football field I played with. We had a great time growing up together in the Shores as kids. My sincere condolences to his family during this sad time.
Fran Alvarez
July 6, 2015
You will be missed Pete.To know you was to love you..Truly one of a kind
RIP
July 6, 2015
I was saddened to get the news of Pete's passing. We became friends in school and I'll always remember his funny sense of humor. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. Rest in Peace, Pete. Angie Bucchi Silvers, MESH '64
Steve Banks
July 6, 2015
GOD BLESS YOU,PETE. Every Red Raider and their prayers are the spirit wind carrying you home. You are in an amazing place right now. In a while, we will see you once more. ALL IS WELL.
terry webster
July 5, 2015
truly one of a kind who was blessed with great coordination and big hands:) i know john prospero who i roomed with at tennessee told me the quarter after i left pete came up and walked on and got a scholarship for football.
Chris Mathewson
July 5, 2015
I was sorry to learn of Pete's passing. Pete, for some reason, was in Mike'n Masque at Miami Edison HS. He use to call me "kiddo." He was one of EDISON's claim to fame. Thanks, Pete.
I send sincere condolences to his family.
July 5, 2015
His family should know that is was always remembered and missed at our Miami Edison reunions. I hope they can find some comfort in the days ahead. Janice Spiczak Hawes ( Darien, CT)
Don Strock
July 5, 2015
Pete and his family are in my thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time. I knew Pete as a great guy and a lot of fun to be around. RIP my friend.
July 5, 2015
Very sorry to learn of Pete's passing. This is a great loss. I got to see Pete throw a touchdown pass to Roy Spradley against Miami High and Pete handcuff the Washington Redskins retrievers for four quarters in an NFL game in D.C. when Pete was with the NY Giants. Great guy, great athlete and my sincere condolences to his family and those who knew and loved him.
God bless. Steve deMontmollin, MEHS
jim cushman
July 5, 2015
dont remember when i first got to know pete....shores elementary thru miami edison...he was always the one the girls swooned over....he took it lightly tho.....always the cool one........the only pro football player i ever knew and used to be proud of it....rip pete
Judy Hirsch
July 5, 2015
Pete was a classmate at Miami Edison. A talented athlete, intelligent and always good-natured. He will be missed. My condolences to his family and friends.
Nancy Murphy
July 5, 2015
So sorry to hear of his passing, he was always full of energy. Condolences to his family & friends.
Diana Giannotti
July 5, 2015
Pete was a classmate in High School, I was so saddened to here of his passing. Have great memories of the fun times. My thoughts an prayers go out to his family.
Alwin Elliott
July 5, 2015
Always remember Peter, my mom made him a babanna cake every time edison a game , we went all the way back to Jr Hi. Rest in pease my friend
July 5, 2015
Sorry to hear about Pete we had some good times together around Miami Shoes and Edison !!!
paulette Ward
July 5, 2015
We were so sorry to hear about Pete. He was a friend back in high school and we have good memories of times shared. Pete's family is in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Glen and Paulette Ward
July 5, 2015
A wonderful human being, true friend and great athlete. Pete was very special in many ways.
R.I.P.
Jose Morales
MESH '64
Roland Gonzales
July 5, 2015
Remember Pete as a gifted athlete and with a witty sense of humor. Sincere condolences to the family. RIP classmate.
about 5 years ago,don't have it any longer.
doug (Mr. Magoo) noecker
July 5, 2015
Didn't know him that well, seems he was a jock and didn't associate with we bikers...LOL. My condolences to his family and friends. He did what he wanted, play sports, so I hope he had a good life.
Bill Reno
July 5, 2015
Rest in Peace my good friend Peter.
Chaplain Bill Reno MESH '64
Laraine Johnson Bertani
July 5, 2015
Pete was my "lil" brother in high school and got to see him afterwards during athletics at the MS community center in the 70's and then only occasionally at high school reunions. So sad, condolences to his family.
Peter Nagy
July 5, 2015
Didn't know Peter personally, but I know he played the 1963 season for Edison. I saw him in a few of the New York Giants games. My condolences to his family.
Alex Beckman
July 5, 2015
God speed my friend...yeah, it was me who dinged up the Gordon and Smith surfboard you left at the Duffy's. I owe you.
Alicia Sjostrom-Douffet
July 5, 2015
Went to Edison Sr. High with Pete. Sorry to hear of his passing. My condolences to his family and friends.
Donna Merrill Tornillo
July 5, 2015
Pete was a classmate of mine in high school. I remember him for his great sense of humor, gregariousness and outstanding athletic ability.I am saddened by his passing and wish his family love in the memories and peace in days to come.
Sheri Shepherd Estroff
July 5, 2015
I had the pleasure to have known Pete in high school, and am saddened that he has passed away. Condolences to his family.
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