Peter Paul McKenzie

April 11, 1936 – August 20, 2025

Peter McKenzie Sr. was born on April 11, 1936, in Buffalo, New York. A man of deep conviction and quiet strength, Peter dedicated his life to service—first to his family, country, and to the communities he called home.

He graduated from Michigan State University in 1957 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, where he was a proud member of the Theta Pi Fraternity. A lifelong MSU fan, Peter cheered on the Spartans with unwavering pride.

Upon graduation, he was commissioned into the United States Army as a Second Lieutenant, beginning a distinguished military career that included service in the Korean War and two tours in Vietnam. In 1976, he earned his MBA from Northeast Missouri State University, furthering his commitment to leadership and education.

Peter’s final military assignment brought him to Eastern New Mexico University, where he served as Head of Military Science. Under his guidance, the ROTC program flourished and gained regional and national recognition. He retired from the military in 1979 as a Lieutenant Colonel, but his dedication to service never waned.

Alongside his wife, Mary Jon McKenzie, Peter founded and operated Plansation Landscape and Sprinklers, a successful business serving clients in Portales and Clovis, New Mexico. He also taught at ENMU’s College of Business, sharing his knowledge and experience with future generations.

Peter was deeply involved in civic life. He served as a Portales City Councilman, a member of the Portales City Planning Board, and President of the Portales Rotary Club. He was also a proud member of the Clovis Chamber of Commerce and the Disabled American Veterans.

Peter was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Edith, his brother Jim, and his wife, Mary Jon. He is survived by his first wife Lynn Puckett of Austin Tx, and their children: Ken, Pete, Mary, Phil, and Matt, along with their families. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a cherished grandfather whose wisdom and humor will be deeply missed.

Peter will be remembered not only for his military service and civic contributions, but for the integrity, humility, and compassion with which he lived his life. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the communities he helped shape.

Peter’s ashes will be spread at the Vietnam Veteran National Memorial State Park in Angel Fire, New Mexico, during a private family gathering.