Pete Misrasi

August 7, 2013

Look in the dictionary under self made man, you will find a picture of Pete Misrasi.

Pete passed away in his home August 7, 2013 surrounded by his family. He was born the son of Albanian immigrant parents. His father died when he was 15 years old. He quit school to run the family farm in order to support his mother and 4 younger siblings. Pete grew up during the depression and learned the value of hard work and never lost his love for it his whole life. During his early years of farming, Pete partnered with Dave Fridal, who was not only a mentor, but a life-long friend.

He was drafted into the service in 1950 and served in the 11th Airborne as a paratrooper. Pete really enjoyed his years in the service and it instilled in him a sense of order, cleanliness and self-discipline. He made deep and lasting friendships with fellow service-men that he enjoyed for the rest of his life.

Upon his return, he married Betty Iverson and began to accumulate farms and children. Together Pete and Betty ran a successful farm and cattle operation. They were the first farmers to sell tomatoes on the road side. He was known all over the Bear River Valley for his sweet corn. The family ran the vegetable operation for 40 years.

Following his exit from the produce business, Pete began a successful hay operation. He was one of the few farmers in the valley who continued to produce small bales of hay. He loved to sell to folks who had a few horses or goats. He enjoyed visiting with them. Repeatedly he turned down large hay brokers who wanted his entire crop so that he could continue to sell to individuals. He was concerned about what would happen if there was no hay for them and he loved to hear about their lives.

When he wasn't selling hay, Pete and Betty enjoyed trips to Arizona where he became an expert house sitter and dog walker. A favorite past-time, referred to as "junking" allowed Pete to relive the past and Betty to expand her vast collection of antique furniture and farm equipment. They were often joined by his son David and his late daughter-in-law, Karen. A favorite find of his was an old camo jacket purchased for Karen to which he added his Airborne insignia.

Unlike most folks, Pete never really retired. He continued to work. Work defined his life. He loved it and instilled a strong work ethic in his five children. He is survived by his wife; Betty, children; Richard (Lisa), David, Cyndi (Mark Stanger), Brian, Tyler (Wylynn); ten grandchildren, two step grandchildren, six great grandchildren, two step great grandchildren, his brother Manuel (Shannon) Misrasi, and sisters Peggy Boucher and Melba Benson. He was preceded in death by his parents George K and Vanthia Misrasi; his sisters Marcetta, Tess, and Alexandra; two brothers Lewis and Peter; and daughter-in-law, Karen. The family wishes to thank Dr Todd Miller for his assistance.

One of Pete's strongest traits was generosity. He never left home without a wad of small bills to give to those down on their luck. During the fruit stand years, Pete always gave extra produce to single moms, large families and the elderly. Given his concern for others and his ability to grow food, Pete would be pleased if in lieu of flowers, you would donate to one of his favorite charities, the Tremonton Food Pantry, 180 South Tremonton, Utah 84337

Funeral services will be held Tuesday August 13, 2013 at 11 am at the Garland Tabernacle 140 West Factory Garland, Utah. A viewing will be held Monday evening from 6-8 pm at the Garland Tabernacle and Tuesday morning from 9 to 10:30 am. Interment will be in the Garland City cemetery.

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