Peter John Pantages, a cherished family man and Korean War veteran, passed away peacefully at his home in Corte Madera, California, on September 11, 2025. He was 96 years old. Born on October 27, 1928, in San Francisco, Peter was the youngest of seven children born to John and Vula Pantages, and he was the last surviving sibling. His family included his brothers and sisters, Ted, Helen, Georgia, Gregory, Nicoletta, and Emily.
Peter leaves behind a loving family, including his wife, Catherine, whom he married 67 years ago. He is survived by four daughters—Pamela (and her husband Monte), Lisa, Jennifer (and her husband Ray), and Maria (and her husband Sal)—along with six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. His legacy also includes numerous nieces and nephews who fondly remember family gatherings filled with traditional Greek Easter picnics and Christmas celebrations marked by delicious food and lively music.
Peter served as a radio and transmissions specialist during the Korean War from 1950 to 1952. After returning from military service, he met Catherine in 1956, and together they built a life in Corte Madera, raising their four daughters in a warm and welcoming home.
A Community Fixture and Family Man
Known for his vibrant personality, Peter was a community fixture, renowned for hosting memorable parties on the 4th of July and New Year’s Eve. He was often referred to as the neighborhood fix-it guy, always ready with the right parts for various repairs. His expertise extended beyond simple fixes; he worked as an employee and later co-owner of Park Presidio Radio-TV on Clement Street, collaborating with his brothers Ted and Gregory. Peter gained a reputation for his ability to repair televisions and radios, often reviving devices that others deemed beyond saving.
In his free time, Peter enjoyed golfing with family and friends, embracing the outdoors during summers spent camping along the Middle Fork of the Yuba River. These experiences fostered lasting memories with his loved ones, reinforcing the tight-knit family bonds he valued deeply.
A Life of Adventure and Travel
Following his retirement, Peter and Catherine embarked on a series of adventures, exploring Europe and their ancestral homeland of Greece. They often traveled with friends, enjoying extended trips and cruises that allowed them to create even more cherished memories together.
Peter’s life was a testament to dedication, family, and community spirit. His joyful contributions and the love he shared will be remembered by all who knew him. As family and friends gather to honor his memory, they will undoubtedly celebrate the rich legacy he leaves behind—a life filled with love, laughter, and the warmth of family ties.
