Pete Hurtado

Pete Hurtado, Jr., who came into our world on February 19, 1934, was summoned home by the Lord on January 1, 2014. A lifelong resident of Houston, Texas, Pete was known and loved for his generous spirit and his humor. A craftsman of fine furniture which adorned many of Houston’s most prestigious homes, Pete was the owner of and driving force behind Hurtado Furniture for more than 30 years. The furnishings produced in his shop near Downtown Houston were sought after by clients and interior decorators because they were marked by the kind of beauty and high quality that simply couldn’t be found elsewhere. His Impeccable work ethic and strong desire to always keep busy meant he remained active at his business until the end. A former member of the Knights of Columbus, Pete was a physically strong man and a major sports fan who often relayed happy anecdotes of his years playing in a softball league. Weekends would often find him comfortably relaxing on one of his self-made couches, cheering on the Oilers, Astros, Rockets, and Texans.

Pete was the patriarch and solid foundation of a large and loving family, each member of which never doubted that they could turn to him for help, no matter the circumstances. He was preceded in death by his parents, Pete Sr. and Vera Hurtado, and his sister Mary. He is survived by his beloved wife of more than 60 years, Estella, as well as his children Albert, Velma, Debbie, Natalie, Peter, and Mike. His grandchildren, who affectionately referred to him as “Pa,” include Vincent, Jason, Robert, Holly, Amanda, Brian, Mikey, Eric, Nicholas, Valerie, Danny, and Matthew. His great-grandchildren, who knew him as their “Pawee,” are Victoria, Madelyn, Christopher, Juliana, twins Michael and Mason, and Anthony.

Pete’s legacy continues on through the generations of people whose lives he touched. These family and friends can share endless stories about him, ranging from inspiring to downright funny. Through his unfaltering strength of character, he provided a first-rate example of what it means to live a life of integrity, compassion, and goodwill. Through the size of his own heart, he has forever enriched the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him.

Services will be held Monday, January 6, 2014, at Forest Park.