Peter Medina, 90, of Galesburg, died peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family at 2:20 a.m. Thursday, November 4, 2021.
Peter was born May 29, 1931, in Galesburg, the son of Cenobio and Petra (Martinez) Medina. Peter married Christine Casillas. Together they had four children. He later married Cheryl L. Hodgkins on August 14, 1982, in Galesburg. Peter is survived by his wife, Cheryl; one son, Thomas Medina of Galesburg; two daughters, Trish Johnson of Galesburg, and Christine “Teeny” Medina of Galesburg; and two stepdaughters, Mia Cadwell of Galesburg, and Mary S. Teel of Galesburg. Peter is also survived by one brother, Juan Medina of Galesburg; one sister, Mary Gutierrez of Phoenix, AZ; 15 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Peter was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Greg on June 21, 2021; a son in law, Bob Wright; a daughter in law, Amy Medina; four brothers, Mario, Raymond, Phillip, and Paul; as well as three sisters, Nellie Miranda, Josephine Medina, and Tillie Ojeda.
Peter enlisted in the US Army on December 6, 1951 and served as a paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne. He was honorably discharged on December 11, 1953. Peter worked as an assembler at Maytag for over 39 years, retiring in 1992. Peter was a hard working man whom never came across a project he couldn’t handle. He often bonded with his grandchildren by showcasing his knowledge of carpentry and gardening. He instilled a sense of pride in his work and was always proud to share his work ethic with those closest to him. He also had an unwavering love for Chicago Cubs which always made for fun debate with his family and friends who mainly favored the St. Louis Cardinals. Peter especially enjoyed music. Ranging from country to Mexican. He would often enjoy dancing for exercise in the early morning and more so for fun with anyone willing to accompany him. Peter was greatly admired and respected by his children and grandchildren for his wisdom, inspiration and guidance. Peter had a special ability to let you know he meant business with a look but could also warm your heart with his smile, his infectious laugh and quirky sense of humor.
Visitation will be 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, November 13, 2021, at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Funeral Mass will follow at 12 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Galesburg. Father Lee Brokaw will officiate. Burial with military rites will be at St. Joseph Cemetery, Galesburg. Memorials may be made to OSF Hospice, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, or to Western Illinois Special Olympics. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
