Peter Michael Blaine
- James Robinson
- Jul 20
- 2 min read
Peter Michael Blaine passed away on July 16, 2025, after facing multiple illnesses with extraordinary grit and grace. Defying the odds, Pete outlived each prognosis, squeezing every ounce from life and meeting each day with resilience and courage. When his time came, he was accompanied by his loving wife and family on his peaceful transition to be with the Lord. He was 83.
Born on January 6, 1942, in White Plains, New York, Pete’s sense of service and adventure took root early. At just 17, he joined the U.S. Navy, proudly serving his country. After his military service, he pursued a mission closer to home and joined the New York Fire Department, where he continued his devotion to helping others.
Pete married the love of his life, Michele, on June 2, 1984, and together they built a life grounded in faith, service, and love. They made their home in Gresham, Oregon. He was blessed with two children: Heather, a daughter from his first wife, and Michael, a son from Michele.
Community service was at the heart of everything Pete did. He was a proud member of the Patriot Guard, escorting fallen soldiers to their final resting places, and led the Homeless Ministry at his church. Whenever someone needed a hand, no matter the time or task, Pete was there.
Pete’s warmth and generosity touched everyone who knew him. He had a rare gift for connecting with people from all walks of
life. The outdoors was his sanctuary, whether he was hunting, shooting, or snowmobiling through the backcountry, Pete found peace and joy off the beaten path.
He is survived by his wife, Michele, his children, Michael Blaine and Heather Castellano, son-in-law Vito Castellano, and his grandchildren Anthony and Michael.
In true Pete fashion, he celebrated his life while he was still here to enjoy it. In January 2025, his wide circle of friends and family gathered for a living celebration of life; a chance for Pete to hear the stories, laughter, and love that defined his extraordinary life. Ever the original, he called it his celebration “above the dirt” — a fitting tribute to a man who lived fully, loved deeply, and walked his own path.
A military burial service will be held on Wednesday, July 23, at 9:30 a.m., at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, located at 2929 E Pinnacle Peak Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85024. Please RSVP with Nancy Anderson at (951) 733-9995.
In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Peter Blaine can be made to:
Saint Jude’s Children’s Hospital
501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105
Tunnel to Towers Foundation
2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306
Please comment below to leave a note or share a memory.
Pete was a human with overflowing love inside of him, so much so, that he gave it freely to those who needed it most, it was the love that I aspire to give to those who need it most, and that I am sure a lot of us would like to, but are often afraid to. For this, God was wise, and he made Pete fearless. I will never forget that example, and I will always remember Pete, when I need to face my fears, and trust in God.
Pete was a great man with a great big heart. Everyone loved Pete, and he never met a stranger. He was intelligent, with a quick Irish wit. He made my sister Michele very happy, and was a wonderful husband, father, and friend. He fit right into our family, with all our crazy antics. Many times Pete would lead the fun on our large family vacations, earning him the nickname El Hefe. There aren’t enough words to describe a larger than life person like Pete. So needless to say, he will be greatly missed. Pete, until we meet again in heaven; save a seat for us at the table.