Peter Joseph Marchiando Jr.

Colonel Peter Joseph Marchiando Jr. (USAF, retired) passed away suddenly Sept. 9, 2022, in Soldotna, Alaska, at the age of 81. He was born Feb. 8, 1941, in Spring Valley, Ill., the eldest son of the late Peter J. Marchiando Sr. and Cecilia T. Marchiando.

He was a graduate of the University of Illinois, earning doctorates in ceramic engineering and, later, philosophy. A career Air Force officer, Peter was commissioned in January 1964 and was proud to serve his country in assignments across the country through 1993, retiring after command roles at the Eglin Air Force Base Armament Lab and, finally, the Phillips Laboratory at Kirtland Air Force Base.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 39 years, Sandra Joanne (Nickel) Marchiando.

He is survived by his loving wife of 16 years, Judith Tanner Marchiando; and three brothers, Michael Marchiando (Sue), David Marchiando (the late Kay), and Andy Marchiando (Lisa); four children, Donna Marchiando Starling (AJ), Diane Marchiando Decker (Darrell), Jeffrey Marchiando (Amy), and Steven Marchiando (Meg); seven grandchildren, Christopher Nieft, Darby Hughes, Robin Marchiando, Trevor Marchiando, Delaney Decker, Adele Marchiando and Jody Marchiando; a great-granddaughter, Sapphire Hughes; and extended family, nieces and nephews and lifelong friends.

Peter was an active member of the Catholic church, always willing to take on big projects and help others. Retired from the Air Force, Peter continued to live a life of adventure and new experiences.

He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed sharing the sport with anyone he could talk into joining him! Peter moved to Alaska when he was 76 years old to explore the great north and with his wife, Judy, he fished, gold mined, grew vegetables to share with the food bank and continued to challenge himself right up to the last minute. He lived a good, full life, doing the things he enjoyed.

Peter will be remembered for his love of God, innovative thinking and generous spirit.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held Sept. 17, 2022, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, Soldotna, Alaska. Peter will be buried with military honors at a later date in Arlington National Cemetery.

Donations may be made in Peter's memory to Shriners Children's Hospital, Spokane, Wash.