Pete Peters

Pete Peters, 80, a resident of El Cajon, passed away on October 15, 2024, after his battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Pete was born on January 18, 1944, to Elmer and Vera Peters in Goodland, Kansas.  He was their third born child and oldest son.  After graduating from Goodland High School, Pete joined the United States Army and served our country for three years.  He was stationed in Heidelberg, Germany and traveled throughout Europe during his time there.  This sparked his interest in seeing more of the world and he was fortunate to make it to countless countries during his life.

In 1969, Pete was called into the automotive industry and spent 31 years of his career at Drew Ford in La Mesa.  His leadership was second to none and he inspired and led countless men and women to help make Drew Ford San Diego County’s number one Ford dealer for many years.  After a 44 year career, Pete retired in March 2014.

An avid Harley Davidson enthusiast, Pete enjoyed riding with his friends he often referred to as “the boys” throughout San Diego and rode his Harley as far as Sturgis, North Dakota to attend the annual motorcycle rally.  He loved cheering on the Chargers and golfing with his friends and colleagues until he was no longer able to.  

Pete didn’t meet a stranger.  His genuine care for others was evident both at work and in his personal life and he always made those around him feel that they were the only one in the room.  He was happiest when with his friends and family and was always quick to share a joke or story to bring a smile to their face.  Always armed with his charm even in the face of his disease, Pete made sure that everyone smiled in his presence.  

Pete was preceded in death by his father, Elmer, and mother, Vera; brothers Terry Peters and Ken Peters; sister, Karen Winter.  He is survived by his son, Chris Sarot (Sophia); daughter, Jennifer Johnston (Michael); grandchildren Braedan Krowe, Chloe Sarot, Jake Martinez, and Zach Martinez; brothers Roger Peters, Rodney Peters, Randy Peters (Becky) and Rick Peters (Cindy); sisters Phyllis Zweygardt (Harvey), Erma Atkins and Vickie Engel (Don); many nieces and nephews; close family friend, Mary Peters.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Parkinson’s Association of San Diego - parkinsonsassociation.org.

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