Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Peter Cleveland
1941 - 2025
Peter Cleveland Obituary
Beloved father, talented climber, sagely doctor, and friend to many. He passed away doing what he loved - rock climbing at Devil's Lake.
Peter was born on August 3, 1941, in Arlington, Mass. and graduated from Arlington High School. He earned a Bachelor's in Chemistry at MIT, a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry at Iowa State and his MD at Rush Medical College in Chicago.
From an early age, Peter loved being outdoors, bouldering and adventuring with mountaineering clubs. It was during his graduate studies and medical school that he fell in love with Devil's Lake, eventually purchasing and moving one of the cottages, to become his family home for over 50 years.
His family fondly remembers his devotion to his children, science and medicine, and his strong work ethic. Always ready to share an accomplishment or a story, Pete was well-known across the country within the climbing community, developing many life-long friendships.
Peter is preceded in death by his parents and siblings. He is survived by his son, Dan (Stefanie) Cleveland; and daughter, Amy (Marvin) Cullins. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jackson Cleveland, Emily Newman, and MJ Cullins; and many nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will take place Saturday, October 11, 3 to 5 p.m., at Devil's Lake State Park: South Shore "Red Cedar Pavilion." The shelter is located closest to the railroad tracks and the beginning of the Balance Rock Trail.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for Peter Cleveland
Memories and Condolences
for Peter Cleveland
6 Entries
Paul and Sandy Wagener
Yesterday
We consider ourselves blessed to know Pete and his kids for as long as we have. Climbing, campfires and conversation memories would not be nearly as enjoyable without him. He left some pretty big shoes to fill. But fortunately some indelible marks on a lot of us. Thanks Pete!
Sam
Yesterday
Thanks for showing us that impossible is subjective. We only met a handful of times at the Lake but I'm glad we did. Rest well, Pete.
Bart
Yesterday
I´ll miss you Pete! Wish I would have been there to say goodbye. Do me a favor and say hello to Bradley. Tell him I miss him too.
My condolences to his family, Dan, Amy and all.
Bart
Nancy
Yesterday
I´m so sorry to hear about Peter. We worked together in the late 80´s. He could talk about a subject forever. He was someone you would never forget. Rest in Peace Peter.
Scott Stewart
October 9, 2025
Rest well my friend, the days we spent climbing together were unforgettable.
Christine Coggins
October 9, 2025
I grew up hearing stories of the legendary Pete Cleveland from my uncle Tom Deuchler. I am sending Pete´s family and friends my deepest sympathies. The world is short one incredible human!
-Christine Coggins
Atlanta, GA
Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results
Make a Donation
in Peter Cleveland's name
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
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 moreResources 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
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 moreWays to honor Peter Cleveland's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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
