When Peter W. Bleckwehl, 70, of McCormick SC, died on February 15, 2024, he left behind a
large family of adult children, grandchildren (who called him 'Happy'), siblings, nephews, nieces,
his beloved dog Finn and his wife Kelly (who will forever hold Pete in her heart).

Pete was born in Northampton, MA to William T. and Mary N. Bleckwehl. He was one of six
children who grew up in a fun and loving home. He was an honor student and standout
cross-country athlete at Amherst Regional High School, leading his team to the state
championships as captain during his senior year. He cherished his continued friendships with
many of his high school friends.

He graduated with a BA in Health Education from Ohio Wesleyan, during which he spent a
semester in Greece and accumulated many great stories (most of them true). After earning his
MA in School Counseling from Virginia Commonwealth, Pete served as the Director of Career
Services at Yale University. There, he oversaw the Rhodes Scholarship Trust and acted as an
advisor to the school's Fulbright Program. For over 25 years, he served as a counselor in the CT
public school system, working with elementary-aged special education students and guiding
highschoolers towards their college aspirations.

Pete was also very proud to have been a farm worker who drove an 8-ton cucumber truck, a
lumberjack, a veterinarian's assistant, a bounty hunter with the National Association of Bail
Enforcement Agents and a private security officer. One of his proudest moments was meeting
Muhammad Ali and serving as his security at the Cleveland Clinic in Las Vegas, where he met
many other well-known figures in sports, politics and entertainment.
Pete had many interests and hobbies like collecting arrowheads and artifacts, learning Old
Norse, drinking beer (Blue Moon), playing jokes on the kids (especially Brett), playing with his
dog Finn, spending time with grandkids, facetiming with Hanley and Charlotte, texting with
friends and family and enjoying life with his wife Kelly Halladay.

Pete is also survived by and was a proud father to Chelsea Bleckwehl Reinhold (Peter)–daughter
of Carolyn Davis–Brooks Halladay, Lindsay Johnson (Brian), Brian Halladay (Gabrielle), Brett
Halladay (Anastasia) and Kate Halladay (Rick Causey). His 16 grandchildren were his pride and
joy and was deeply loved by them. His surviving siblings include Eric (Barbara), Diane, Robin, Bill
(Mary) and Elizabeth. Pete was such a funny, kind, sensitive and caring soul who was loved by
many. He considered everyone he met a friend, was endlessly curious and will be profoundly
missed.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider
making a donation to the American Heart Association.