Name: Advantage Melcher Chapel of the Roses
Address: Mesa, AZ

I enjoyed Pete’s  humor, wisdom and love for Jesus.  His memory will forever be in my heart. I pray for strength and comfort for the family during this time and moving forward.

I miss my Uncle Pete already. The thought of not seeing him again--of missing his presence at family gatherings and holidays--is surreal. It fills me with sadness; there is an inescapable emptiness I sense already, even just as I imagine our family gathering together without him with us.

And that really is a testament to who Pete was. He was a man who brought genuine joy and presence and love into a room. The endless jokes about Mamma's Jell-O, the word "Fudgecicles" (and smiling as Jeremy and I couldn't keep it together whenever he said the word), or spending 15 minutes showing Shannon and I an endless collection of hilarious memes are memories I will cherish and could not ever forget. His sense of humor wasn't just a gift though, it was a virtue of joy that he imbued--a quiet strength that he carried even in the midst of many health and life challenges. 

It was not just his humor that made Uncle Pete so special. He was also thoughtful and he had an intentional way of connecting with people and finding common interests that made them feel cared for and seen. I'll always remember our interesting conversations about the social work field and vintage audio.

I have another strong memory from when I was in college. I was so incredibly touched when he took some of my poems I'd shared on Facebook and, with his own time and talent, set them to music. That was who he was: a man who paid attention and gave generously of himself. His kindness and intentionality were extensions of his deep love for Jesus. This faith was a quiet, steady part of him, not something he broadcasted loudly, but something he lived daily. It was the source of his strength through his own challenges and the wellspring of the love he so freely shared with all of us. 

I will miss you Uncle Pete but I'm glad you get to celebrate with Jesus and make a joyful noise in heaven now.

I met Pete at Central Christian Church in Mesa, Az in 1975 as a sophomore at Westwood. As musicians we became best friends for years, at church, at school, weekends, evenings, always jamming. Him on piano, me on drums. I played drums for the youth choir and Pete was an amazing vocalist and often played piano. Pete was one of those annoying guys that could pick up any instrument and make it sing like he’d trained for years! Simply an amazing and gifted musician. We were also in the school bands over the years. There is a unique bond sharing the stage with a dear friend like Pete. 

I remember the many sleepovers on weekends, making pizzas and having a lot of laughs. I remember those crazy cars we were always fixing, especially that Pontiac Fiero and that Porsche I was always rewiring. Mostly the laughing. Always laughing.

I grew to love Chuck and Sally and they became my surrogate mom and dad given my broken home situation, even for years after we were out of college. I have many memories but best of all Pete being my best man in my wedding in 1980. To this day my wife remembers our antics and stories from our long friendship.

Our sympathy goes out to Sally, Missy and Teresa during this time. Annette and I wish for peace and healing for your hearts. We all miss him.

I have so much love for Pete, whom I called Uncle Pete, from as long as I can remember. He was a good friend of my parents before I was born and became a good friend of mine as an adult. What a treasure he was to me. I asked him music questions and God questions and uncle-ish questions. He was always good for a conversation about anything at all. I will forever be grateful that Jesus brought him back into my life the last few years and we were able to talk like no time had passed. What a precious, wonderful man. Thank you, Lord, for Pete.

Attended Manhattan Christian College with Pete. I remember that he was of of the “ornery” ones, so much fun to be around! Loved his sense of humor and his Love of the Lord! He’s now dancing before the throne! We’ll see you again some glad morning, Pete!

Teresa and family - - May God wrap his arms around you and comfort you in this difficult time.  May you feel some comfort knowing that Pete is with our loving father.  You are in my prayers, especially now.  Love, Aunt Sherry

Letter to my Big Brother

There is a lot I could say about you. How you were talented, witty, and smart. How I'll miss laughing with you and looking at countless memes. How I'll miss seeing you up on the stage playing keyboards.

You were a brother I looked up to and admired. I especially admired how you handled all the troubles and tribulations in your life. You never complained or wallowed in self-pity. You never cowered or gave up. You always faced everything with courage and strength and lived life to the fullest.

You never turned your back on God. Instead, you remained steadfast in your faith and trust in Him. You didn't blame God. Instead , you praised and worshiped Him every time you were on that stage.

You have been such a good example and inspiration to me. I am blessed and proud to have had you as my brother.

Till we meet again,
Your Little Sister

I’m sure that you’re preparing for warmups in that big band in heaven Pete and we’ll see you again one day.  Thank you Jesus for the promise of the Gospel and the life of your good son Peter Bradshaw.

Larry and I appreciated Peter’s humor and positive nature. It was so good to have some time with you both at family gatherings. He will be missed.

I met Pete at Kino and Westwood. We were in band together and Pete was in my squad. Even at this young age, he was a light and inspiration to all who knew him.
Rest in the arms of Jesus where you are whole again.

OBITUARY

Peter Alan Bradshaw

3 June, 1959 – 17 September, 2025

Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services – Melcher Roses

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