Peter W. Stesiak, 76, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed into his heavenly reward on February 4th, 2024, after a brave and hard-fought two-year battle with cancer. Having been born in LaPorte, Indiana, on October 28th, 1947, to the late Peter and Bernice Stesiak, Phoenix became his home and residence for a total of over 50 years.
A 1972 graduate of Ball State University, Peter was proud to be the first in his family to graduate from college. His educational pursuits were interrupted by a “paid vacation” to Vietnam (’68-’70); there, while serving in the United States Army, he received an accelerated promotion to Sergeant. After resuming his studies at Ball State Peter distinguished himself by earning placement on the Dean’s list.
In 1972 Peter moved to Phoenix having been offered a position at a public accounting firm. Three years later he entered private industry with Penn Athletic Products, eventually achieving the position of financial controller, and was entrusted with the opening of a manufacturing factory in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Eight years later he transitioned to the financial services industry as an investment advisor with RBC Wealth Management; after thirty years of noteworthy service, he retired as a Vice President.
For thirty-one years Peter was married to Claudia (Pittenger) whom he called the “love of my life.” Peter and Claudia were a team and he often stated that Claudia was instrumental in the success of his business and in his renewed commitment to Christ.
The impact of tragically losing his father to cancer when Peter was only eleven years of age became the catalyst for his engagement as a mentor to boys with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. From that mentorship with a nine-year-old boy sprang a life-long relationship and “adoption” of Danny Manning along with Danny’s wife, Mary, and children Shaylee, Maleah, and Juliana. Peter was affectionately known as “Papa Pete.” Peter, aka “Daddio,” also enjoyed his role as a foster parent, where he and Claudia, aka “Mommio,” had the privilege of fostering several children. Among others, Gustavo and Axel remain an important part of their lives.
During his thirty-five years of service to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale Peter served two terms as Foundation Chair. He was passionate about his commitment to the Club and was known as “Mr. Tax Credit”.
There were other significant role models in Peter’s life. Peter’s mother was a strong influence, giving significant guidance to him in his formative years. When stepfather, Benny Lisek, entered the picture a close friendship was established, which included annual trips to Phoenix to participate in what Peter called “The Benny Lisek Open” golf tournament. Warren Ruff, a close friend and father figure for more than thirty years, was also a valued and beloved mentor. Because of this mutual respect, Warren entrusted Peter to help manage his endowment to the Sun Health Warren D. Ruff Scholarship Fund for nursing.
Both as a participant and a fan, Peter enjoyed all kinds of sports. He had an astounding memory for sports trivia. He loved to travel and enjoyed various activities including biking, tennis, and hiking. Not only did he hike various Phoenix trails, he also hiked the Grand Canyon “rim to rim” in one day… on five different occasions!
Peter was personable and engaging with others. He was a true and loyal friend who managed to make everyone think you were his best friend. He lived a full and adventurous life, making relationships a priority. He was a Godly Christian man who loved Jesus and sought daily to grow in his faith. He will be dearly missed.
The family expresses special recognition and thanks to Dr. Amber Flaherty of City of Hope and Dr. Omar Alhalabi, MD Anderson, Houston, for their medical guidance and to special caregiver, Jerrold (Jay) Jingo, who gave willingly of his schedule and energies to assist during critical times.
Peter is survived by his wife, Claudia; a sister, Carol Kozlowski (Vicki Smith); sister-in-law, Betty Cooper (Jim); sister-in-law Jean Scott; brother-in-law, Steve Pittenger (Shannon) and numerous beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale.
https://bgcs.org/foundation-donation-page/
A funeral Mass will be held at 2 pm on Monday, March 18th, 2024, at the Franciscan Renewal Center, 5802 E. Lincoln, Scottsdale, AZ, with a Celebration of Life to follow.
