Peter Henry Dezzani's Obituary
Peter Dezzani Obituary
Our Dad, Pete (Peter Henry) was born on March 7, 1940 in Oakland, California. He joined his brothers, Donald “Skipper” and David, and completed the family as the youngest son of Maurice and Henrietta Dezzani. In late 1944 the family headed to Placerville, California. Pete’s handyman skills were developed during the Motor City years when the family owned and operated an early-version motel. Like his children and grands, Pete learned “how to” from his engineer Dad. Pete’s construction-testament is his fingerprints throughout our home. Pete’s lifelong love for granite and pine trees took root during the many hiking and camping trips he shared as a youngster with his family. He called it his “mountain fix” and passed it on to his family. Uncle Franklin Greene gifted him with flying lessons and after graduating from UC Berkley and serving at Edwards Air Force Base as an engineer he headed west to Oahu. When we look back we sense serendipity and God’s Hand. Pete had no multi-engine time but Aloha Airlines hired him as a flight planner in International Dispatch and as an inter-island pilot. This is where it begins! Our Mom describes it as “the Dezzani Charm.” This good looking, easy smiling, kind and plenty smart person who gave her the tingles started a love story over countless cups of coffee and endless talking story. “We drove up Alewa Heights and sat on top of the water tank under the twinkling stars and he said, “I love you.” They came from two different worlds and made the brave choice to get married. He told her “Trust me,” and she did. Together they built a life and an awesome family in Mililani and for fifty-four years held hands and shared endless conversations. Pete enjoyed his time at Aloha Airlines from the cockpit; to the perfectly stirred cups of coffee from the Flight Crew; to the Red Brick building’s occupants. He was a natural athlete, finishing countless runs and seven marathons. He coached his children in soccer and held his own playing street basketball and volleyball. Pete was interested in thoughts and ideas and enjoyed using the computer. But among his fondest memories were those with people like the International Students at UH. The laughter and smiles while talking story with the second language students brought him much happiness; their friendships brought huge returns to his wellbeing. Dad’s top priority was always his family. Even with four active children he found time to play 4-square or sit at the table and teach math Dad’s way! Perhaps more significantly throughout our lives he listened to our ups and downs. “Ask Dad” was the common refrain in each of our households. We salute you Dad for successfully achieving your dream: all 4 children and their families live within minutes of you and Mom. Pete is Betty’s beloved “Hon-O,” Christopher & LeAnna, Susan & Josef, Keith & Chas, and Carlye & Jared’s amazing Dad, and Chase, Micah, Zoey and Cairo’s adored Pops. He is also lovingly remembered as brother, uncle, cousin, neighbor and friend. In the early hours Jesus drew Pete to HIS light. Peter Henry Dezzani, age 83, passed away on December 26, 2023. A Celebration of Life will be held on April 13, 2024 at Mililani Mortuary Makai Chapel. Visitation will be from 9-10 am with service and lunch to follow. The family requests no flowers, please.
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