Peter Redmond Larkin

Peter died unexpectedly at his home in Desert Hot Springs on October 9, 2024. He was 73 years old. Born in Norwood, Massachusetts, on June 14, 1951, Peter was the third of four children and only son of Frank and Mary Larkin.

The family moved to Long Beach, CA in 1957. Peter attended and graduated from St Joseph Grammar School, Marshall Middle School and Millikan High School, Class of 1969. While at Millikan, Pete played football, took flying lessons and made lifelong friendships with some of his fellow Rams.

Peter loved sailing. He told tales of the high seas with a wry smile that let you know that some of the more fascinating details were missing. In Long Beach, he was a sailing instructor for special needs children. He was great with kids and used his silly humor to bond with them.

He was a caregiver for our mom in her final years. He managed the family household and made it possible for her to remain in her home until her death. They shared a sweet bond that a mother and only son often do.

Pete had a kind soul; like his father, he “did not suffer fools gladly.” He could be opinionated, fiery and challenging to be with, and he had a warm, gentle side.

He was smart, well-read and a lover of music. At home in the California desert, he played guitar and keyboard and spent time thinking up witty things to share with his family and friends.

Pete’s parents, Frank and Mary Larkin, preceded him in death. He is survived by his three sisters, Kathryn, Maribeth, and Maggie, his brother-in-law, David, and cousins from the Caver, Daylor, and Horne families. He will be remembered for his charm and good looks, his wry sense of humor, and his loyalty to family and friends.

Donations in his memory can be directed to The Sisters of the Social Service, 4316 Lanai Rd., Encino, California 91436.