FTCM Peter Joseph Pawlus, USN, Retired, passed away peacefully at his home in Onancock on Saturday, July 22, 2023. He is now in the arms of Jesus and suffers no more. Born Dec. 27, 1943, in Edison, N.J., he was the son of the late Peter Paul Pawlus and the late Catherine Meier Pawlus.
Following high school, Pete enlisted in the United States Navy and began his decorated military career as a seaman recruit. Over the next 33 years, he proudly served on several ships and stations, receiving numerous medals, ribbons, and devices in recognition of his valor and dedication. Most notably, Pete served during the Vietnam War and had the distinguished honor of providing the precise calculations for the final shot executed at the close of the war. His final ship assignment was aboard the USS Wisconsin (BB-64), retiring as Fire Controlman Master Chief on Jan. 1, 1994.
Pete led a life of faithful service to his country and was a faithful servant of the Lord. He was a member of the American Legion and Market Street United Methodist Church, and he was quite likely the friendliest person one could have the pleasure of meeting. Pete would strike up a conversation with anyone and always with the intent of making a new friend, which he often did.
Pete is survived by his loving wife of 19 years, Susan Lee Pawlus, as well as her children, Jennifer Carpenter, Chris Carpenter (Sarah), Scott Carpenter, and Marie Danner; and grandchildren, Brielle and Bennett Carpenter, all of whom he loved as his own. He is also survived by his sisters, Kathleen Hornak, Mary Patella, and Libby Vaughn-Aleavy; three children, Christine Pawlus-Martin, Daniel Pawlus, and Peter Pawlus Jr.; and grandchildren, Kyle Martin, Ryan Martin, Debra Aiello, and Marjolein Pawlus. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers, Walter Pawlus and Richard Pawlus and grandson, Brady Pawlus.
A memorial service honoring Pete’s life will be held at Market Street United Methodist Church in Onancock on Friday, July 28, 2023, at 11 a.m., with the Reverends Lorenzo Hill and Wayne Parsley officiating.
Contributions in his memory may be made to the Eastern Shore SPCA, P.O. Box 164, Onley, VA 23418 (www.shorespca.com) or to Market Street UMC, 75 Market Street, Onancock, VA 23417.
Memory tributes may be shared with the family at
www.williamsfuneralhomes.com
Arrangements are by the Williams-Onancock Funeral Home.
