Pete L. Figueroa, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on July 17, 2026, in Orlando, Florida. He was born on June 11, 1951, in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, and throughout his 75 years, Pete touched the lives of many with his generosity, warmth, and unwavering spirit.

From a young age, Pete demonstrated a strong sense of duty and commitment. After graduating from high school, he joined the United States Navy, embarking on a distinguished career. Pete retired as a first class petty officer after twenty years of honorable service as a hydraulic aviation structural mechanic—a role that became a source of pride and identity in his life. His dedication to his country left a lasting legacy, and he was tremendously proud to be an American and to serve alongside his fellow servicemen and women.

Following his retirement from the Navy, Pete’s adventurous nature led him to pursue new callings. He drove big rigs, exploring the highways and byways of the nation. Later, he followed his passion for taxidermy, embracing the skills and artistry required for the craft. Pete always had a deep connection to the outdoors, and it brought him immense joy to spend time at his hunting lodge in Cody, Wyoming. The serenity of the woods and the grandeur of nature there became a cherished retreat, fulfilling his long-held wish to experience life in the Western United States.

Pete was known for being selfless and giving, a man who would offer a stranger the very shirt off his back. He was always ready to lend a helping hand and quickly earned the admiration and adoration of all who knew him. His kindness left an indelible mark on his community, his friends, and above all, his family.

Family was everything to Pete. He found the greatest happiness in the company of his loved ones, whether camping together or gathering around the table to play board games—a pastime he especially enjoyed with his closest family. Sharing laughter and creating memories during these moments was something he deeply treasured. He also found simple joy in watching classic Westerns and spending quality time with those he held dear.

Pete is survived by his devoted wife, Merari Figueroa; his daughters, Kimberly Ann Figueroa, Monique Surie Vergel and her husband, Jessie Vergel Jr., and Tiffany Nicole Romero and her husband, Leif Romero; his son, Peter Luis Figueroa, III; step-daughters, Jessica Monique Negron and her husband, Emmanuel Negron, and Monica Sharee San Pedro; grandchildren, Madison Shealey Vergel, Kaitlyn Taylor Romero, Brandon Xavier Vergel, Rylee Grace Romero, Christopher Salazar, Briana Salazar, Jonathon Martinez, Carlos Vasquez, Amberly Vasquez, Alisha Figueroa, Ariel Figueroa, Peter Luis Figueroa, IV, and Cassian Figueroa; great-grandchildren, Esteven Rocha, Zaiden Rocha, JoAaron Rocha, Mia Rocha, Aurora Martinez, Everleigh Vasquez, Elliana Vasquez, Adelina Figueroa, Arienne Figueroa, and Jaiden Molina; his sisters, Norma Morales and her husband, Serf Morales; and Julie Figueroa; his brother, Ed Figueroa and his wife, Ada Figueroa; and his nieces, Marisol Morales-Groetsch, Leslie Morales-Robinson, Larissa Carreon, Julie Figueroa, and Victoria Figueroa- Raudenbush; and nephew, Christian Perales.

Pete was preceded in death by his father, Pedro Figueroa, and mother, Dolores Ramirez.

A devoted family man, a patriotic veteran, and a friend to all, Pete will forever be remembered for his boundless generosity, love for adventure, and the deep affection he had for those close to him. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, and his memory will be cherished always.