Peter George Paluck Jr., better known as Pete or Petie by his family and friends, suddenly and unexpectedly passed away on Dec. 18, 2020, while enjoying one of his favorite activities — hiking and taking in the breathtaking views and calming ocean sounds of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
Pete is survived by his wife, Suzanne, sons Shaye and Evret, parents Bert and Peter, siblings Christina, Jennifer, Michael and Kylie, and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. Countless others mourn with his family — too many to mention by name, but include his in-laws, childhood friends and mentors, neighbors, and partners and friends from work.
Pete is preceded in death by his grandparents Gene and Lotus and John and Emmi, uncle Tommy, and aunt Kathy.
Pete was born on April 14, 1977, in Omak, Washington, and spent most of his young childhood in Aptos, California, and his older years in Twisp, Washington. As a child, he enjoyed playing sports such as tennis, basketball, baseball and football. Pete also refereed basketball and umpired baseball and had a short career as a professional umpire before trying teaching, and ultimately deciding to pursue a career as a peace officer. Pete attended Peninsula College in Port Angeles, Washington, and then attended and earned a bachelor’s degree at Eastern Washington University.
Eventually Pete made his way to Monterey County, California, where he has deep family roots, and started his 17-year career with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation as a Correctional Officer and Parole Agent and met his wife of 12 years. Most recently, Pete was elected to be CCPOA Union Chapter President for CTF Prison in Soledad, providing leadership and inspiring unity in a difficult time.
At home, Pete was a loving husband and father, taking great care to prepare healthy and delicious meals and plan for many vacations and day trips throughout each year. In the summertime, Pete enjoyed spending time at his wife’s family cabin on Birch Lake in the Wisconsin north woods.
Join us remembering Pete Paluck, cherished husband, father, son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, friend, teacher and partner, with his relentless humor, optimism, perseverance, energy and appreciation for life and those around him who connected with his exuberant, generous, and compassionate spirit. Although his life ended much earlier than expected, he left his family and friends with a lifetime of lasting, precious memories that will undoubtedly provoke smiles and laughter.
A celebration of life service is anticipated sometime later in 2021. Details to be announced once available.
Also, Pete loved Point Lobos and planned to be a docent there when he retired. To donate to preserve the park in his honor visit: www.pointlobos.org/support-point-lobos..
