Peter John Olshefski

Peter John Olshefski was born on June 22, 1917 to Peter and Annie Olszewski in Shenandoah, Pennsylvania. He was raised with four siblings, Anne, Eleanor, Clara and Lenny. He attended high school in Shenandoah and later attended Drexel College.

As a young man, Peter met and fell in love with Helen Szolack. The couple later exchanged wedding vows in May of 1950 in Pennsylvania. Having empathic and loyal hearts, the two shared many loving years of marriage.

Peter and Helen were blessed with two sons, Dennis and Gary. Peter worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs, raising his children in a positive and nurturing environment.

Later in life, Peter was blessed with the gift of five grandchildren and three great- grandchildren.

Peter enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, he worked diligently and did his best to succeed in each of his careers. Peter enlisted in the United States Navy and served honorably for 30 years earning the final rank of YNCM. During his time in the Navy, he saw action for World War II, The Korean War and Vietnam War. He earned numerous awards and commendations. After retiring from the Navy, Peter chose to work for U.S. Customs. He was employed for 15 years.

Peter enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in a number of different activities, including fishing, gardening, going on cruises and most of all, spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Peter left us on November 24, 2011. He passed away in Chula Vista, California of natural causes. He is survived by his loving wife Helen Olshefski; sons Dennis and Gary Olshefski; brother Lenny Olszewski and sister-in-law Sophie Balczarek; daughter-in-law Carol Olshefski; grandchildren David Hurst, Theresa Hurst, Sarah Olshefski, Elizabeth Dodge, Rachel Beckworth; and his great grandchildren Ileana Pendley, Karlton Marcellus and Alexis Beckworth. Services were handled by Glen Abbey Mortuary. A Funeral Mass was held at St. Pius X Catholic Church on December 2, 2011. Peter was laid to rest at Glen Abbey Memorial Park in Bonita, California.