Walter "Pete" Elsenpeter

Walter "Pete" Elsenpeter, 85, of Brooklyn Park, MN, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, September 22, 2026.

Born August 9, 1941, in Minneapolis, Pete was the only son of Walter and Evelyn Elsenpeter and grew up with his sisters, Connie and Marilyn. At 17, he began working at Larson Chevrolet, starting a 45-year career as an auto mechanic. He was known for working hard, doing things right, and never taking shortcuts.

Pete married the love of his life, Judith "Judi" Elsenpeter, on September 21, 1963. Together, they raised their children, Lori Collette of Ashburn, VA, and Wade Elsenpeter (Jessie Brunotte) of Andover, MN. Pete coached their sports teams, fixed what needed fixing, and was always there for them. His greatest pride was his family, including grandchildren Kiley, Zachary, Cadence, and Austin.

At 24, Pete was drafted into the U.S. Army and served in the infantry in Vietnam. He rose to sergeant and led a mortar platoon. He returned home in 1967 to Judi, who was waiting for him on the tarmac. They shared more than six decades together.

In retirement, Pete enjoyed lunches with friends, fishing, playing pickleball in Minnesota and Arizona, and volunteering at his church.

He lived by a simple principle: "I just don't like to benefit myself at the expense of others."

He is survived by his children, grandchildren, sisters Connie and Marilyn (Bob), and extended family. He was preceded in death by his wife, Judi, and parents, Walter and Evelyn Elsenpeter.

Celebration of Life: 11 AM Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Evans-Nordby Funeral Home, 6000 Brooklyn Blvd., Brooklyn Center. Visitation will begin at 10 AM, one hour prior to the service, with a luncheon to follow.