Obituary published on Legacy.com by Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes - Jennings-Lyons Chapel on Jun. 25, 2025.
Pete Pappas Jr., was called to his heavenly home on June 24, 2025, at Pleasant View in
Owosso, Michigan. Born on April 22, 1935, in Owosso, to the late Pete Pappas Sr. and Myrtle Loux, Pete's life was a testament to the values of family, service, and faith
A proud graduate of Owosso High School, Class of 1955, Pete's dedication to his community was evident early on. He furthered his education at the University of Michigan, where he specialized in Fireman Training, a field that would define much of his professional life. Pete's career as a firefighter began with the Ann Arbor Railroad, but it was at the Owosso Fire Department where he spent the majority of his years. In 1997, after 37 years of distinguished service, he retired as a Captain, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and commitment to the safety of others. Pete married Margaret June Quinn at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Owosso on July 27, 1957 and together they raised two children, John and Tamra
Family was the cornerstone of Pete's life. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Margaret, with whom he shared just shy of 68 years with. His children, Tamra Pappas and John (Linda) Pappas, will carry forward his spirit of kindness and generosity. Pete's joy was multiplied with the birth of his grandchildren, Jason (Julie) Pappas, Matthew Pappas, and Gregory Pappas, and further still with his great-grandchildren, Camden and Liam, who brought him immeasurable happiness.
Pete is also survived by his sister-in-law, Barbara Pappas, and many nieces and nephews who will fondly remember his friendly nature and loving guidance. He now joins his late parents, Peter and Myrtle, his brothers Robert and Lester, and sister-in-law Shirley in eternal peace.
Throughout his life, Pete was a man who embodied the Christian virtues of love and service. He was a family man through and through, one who would do anything for anyone, always with a thoughtful and helpful hand. His dedication to his work and family knew no bounds, and he was especially fond of his grandsons, whose achievements and milestones he followed with pride and joy.
Pete's interests reflected the simplicity and purity of his heart. In his younger years, he found solace in the tranquility of hunting and fishing. A lover of all creatures, Pete often said he would care for all the pets in Heaven, a sentiment that captures his boundless compassion. Even his lawn was kept pristine, a reflection of his meticulous and dedicated nature.
Loving, kind, and friendly-these are the words that best describe Pete. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched, in the safe community he helped build, and in the serene landscapes he so cherished. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we are comforted by the thought that he is now resting in the loving arms of our Lord, his life a well-lived journey of faith and love.
Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at 12:00pm at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 915 E. Oliver St. Owosso, Fr. Dieudonne Ntakarutimana will celebrate with burial to follow in Oak Hill Cemetery. The Pappas family will receive friends at Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, 520 W. Main St. Owosso, on Monday, June 30, 2025 from 3:00pm-8:00pm. The Rosary will be prayed at 7:00pm at the funeral home on Monday evening.
Those desiring a memorial contribution in Pete's name; the family asks that you consider St. Paul Catholic School or the Shiawassee Firefighters Memorial.
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