Peter ‘Pete’ Suardini

Pete was born in the Bronx, New York, on March 31, 1931, to the late Charles and Linda (Zambetti) Suardini. As a child, his family briefly returned to Italy before settling in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where they made their permanent home. Pete graduated from Ishpeming High School, Class of 1949. After graduation, he worked at Cleveland Cliffs before proudly serving his country in the United States Navy. Following his honorable discharge, Pete returned home and continued his career with Cleveland Cliffs, devoting 44 years of service before retiring in 1993.

In 1956, Pete married the love of his life, Janet LeBresh. Together, they shared 68 wonderful years of marriage until Janet’s passing in October of 2024. Pete and Janet built a life centered on love, fun, and family, making memories everywhere they went-from the bleachers at sporting events to the comfort of their own home, Pete was always the ring leader of fun.

Pete was a devoted member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, where he gladly served on the funeral dishwashing crew and helped wherever he was needed. A lifelong member of the Ishpeming Elks Club, he was known for his generous spirit and love of community. Pete had a zest for life and many talents. He played in the Ishpeming/Negaunee Old Timers Softball League well into his 80s and also enjoyed participating in local bowling, horseshoe, and cribbage leagues. An avid outdoorsman, Pete especially treasured fishing trips on Greenwood Reservoir and time spent at camp.

Pete’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his children: Teri Asiala, Pete Suardini, Dee (Tom) Villar, Gerald (Bre) Suardini, and Tony (Kelsey) Suardini; sister-in-law Darlene Running; brother-in-law Jerome Valenti; grandchildren: Jessica Asiala, Brad (Kayla) Asiala, Dominic Suardini, Jason (Kristi) Villar, Kristi Villar, Bryan (Jaime) Villar, Ari Suardini, Nic Suardini, Vin Suardini, and Gia Suardini; step-grandchildren: Petra, Olivia, Quin, and Max O’Connor; great-grandchildren: Oliver and Frances Villar, Owen and Ella Asiala, and Brady and Barrett Villar. He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, and many special neighbors and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife of 68 years Janet (LeBresh) Suardini, brother Joseph Suardini, and sister Mary Valenti.

The family will greet relatives and friends on Friday, October 3, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ishpeming. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. Jurnej Sustar officiating. A luncheon will be served in the church hall, and interment will take place at the Ishpeming Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Marquette County Medical Care Facility Activity Fund in memory of Pete.

Pete’s family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff of the Marquette County Medical Care Facility and UP Home Health and Hospice for the outstanding care and kindness shown to him.

His obituary may also be viewed online at bjorkandzhulkie.com, where friends and family are invited to leave a note of remembrance.