Pete fought a tremendous battle with the strength and determination he always possessed. He passed peacefully on Saturday, January 20th, 2024 surrounded by his family and friends.

Pete was born to Nikolaos and Sapfo Begakis in Long Island, New York. When he was around 8 years old, the family relocated to California. This is where he lived for the majority of his life, but whenever he talked with someone from back east, an accent would suddenly reappear and we would tease him about it. After a few years of moving to different areas of Southern California, they finally settled in the city of Cerritos. He grew up with his sister Maria and nearby cousins George and Elene.

In middle school he became very active and his PE teacher took notice of his tenacity and drive. He did his best during any and all physical activity. Over the years, he told us many stories of how this PE teacher would encourage and push him. It was this influence that ultimately shaped his lifelong discipline of fitness and exercise. Pete felt the need to reconnect and after 40 plus years, he and Mr. West were able to do just that. It was a heartwarming reunion and Pete was able to share the tremendous impact he had on his life.

Pete's mother introduced him to the piano and accordion at an early age. His musical talent came naturally, so much so that he could play by ear. Having this gift however, frustrated his music teachers as he wouldn't read the music. As a teenager, he joined The Olympian dance group where he shined with his dance skills. It was there that he met George and Jim Karadakis who also played instruments, the bouzouki. This connection sparked some jam sessions and they realized they had a band in the making. Thus, The Olympians Band was taking shape, circa 1975. They recruited Billy Contreras (drums), Steve Kidd (guitar), and during this time Pete taught himself to play his beloved clarinet. Some years later, and after some unfortunate events, Billy and Steve were replaced by Steve Opdahl (drums) and Jerry Thermos (guitar). It has been nearly 40 years and these five boys have been a part of so many of our lives. Playing every wedding, baptism, church event, glendi, and party for our Greek community, Pete's beautiful voice always resonating around
each dance floor

Aside from his passion for music, for 39 years, he worked tirelessly at McDonnell Douglas Aircraft and then Boeing. He was a respected manager and well-liked colleague to the many people he worked with over the years. His work family was important to him.

In his mid-twenties, during a festival, Pete was on stage and locked eyes with a girl in the crowd, Mary Tountas. After a brief encounter that kindled a connection and a blossoming romance over the phone, they fell in love. In the summer of 1990 they were married and began their lives together. Eventually, they started a family and had three children

Pete was a wonderful husband, father, brother, uncle, son and friend who was insightful and passionate about music and life. He brought so much joy, laughter, and fun to all who knew him - he truly was an inspiration. His infectious smile and exuberant personality will be greatly missed by all who knew him. 

He is survived by his loving wife Mary, of 35 years, and his children Sophoula, Niko, and Athan. His mother Fofo, sister Maria, brother-in-law Christo, and his nephews Yianni & Niko Minoudis. He is pre-deceased by his father Niko Begakis.

Funeral arrangements are set for the Trisagion to be held Thursday, February 8th, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. and the funeral will be Friday, February 9th, 2024 at 10:00 a.m., both services at Saint John Greek Orthodox Church, 405 North Dale Street, Anaheim, CA 92801. Following the makaria (mercy luncheon), the interment will be at Forest Lawn cemetery in Cypress. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Saint John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church.

Arrangements under the direction of Chapman Funeral Homes - Mary Harmon, owner. Toll free (855) 628-0447.