Name: Lake View Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens
Address: Fairview Heights, IL

Many fond memories working with Pete at the 375th SFS, Scott AFB.  Honored to have known and served with him.  Condolences to his family and friends...RIP Chief.

Peter, I will miss you, always, and you will live on through my memories. You were a great man, and have taught me a lot in life. And you were the best storyteller I've ever known.

My nephew Peter, when he first got diagnosed with Cancer wrote a letter and posted it on Face book on 12/19/2013 and he titled it, A Year in Review.  I don't know why his Aunt Diana printed it, but I remember reading it and it stayed in my nightstand drawer for all that time. The other day we rediscovered it and when we read it, I truly believe it was Peter's way of saying good bye 3 years in the making.  I don't know why we kept it or why in today's age a piece of paper like that did not get thrown out. But it survived and now this letter is so special and meaningful, because it gives you a small glimpse of what he had to endure and how much courage he had, to last as long as he did. I hope the rest of the world will enjoy and be inspired by the words this brave soul wrote.
(Written by Peter and placed on his Facebook page on 19 Dec. 2013)
A Year in Review 
One year ago I was in a trauma center fighting numerous blood clots in my lungs. Tubes and wires wrapped my body, every hour the nurse would stop by to draw more blood and give another injection. After six hours of working on me, the nightshift doctor finally arrives to inform me that I was well on my way to recovery and that I will have to be on blood thinners for at least the next six months. Then, the bomb a mass was found in my lower right lobe of my lung. Twelve hours later I would undergo numerous other tests, x-rays, scans, blood work and the dreaded lung biopsy.  Yes, the adrenaline pumping through my veins was not excitement, but fear.  Fear of the unknown of what this mass was. Was it an infection, was it a cyst, or was it a tumor? Anyone and everyone will go through a large range of emotions till that answer is revealed. This torment lasted about a week until the next doctor appointment.
The answer was not what anyone would want to hear. But what hurt the most was the delivery of the news. You would think that if you had to deliver someone bad news that you would work on the delivery.  However there are some folks in the world feel it is better to deliver a quick blow instead of a sugar coating on it.  The guy must have been from New York. It just so happens that being a New Yorker gave me thicker skin and emotions to quickly recover from that blow. That tough attitude was needed to get me through the next month of x-rays, blood work, CATSCANs, a PEPSCAN and another round of biopsies to finally find out what stage of cancer I was dealing with. That Friday morning I was scheduled for a couple of biopsies, each one to verify if the cancer has spread to different parts of the body. When I woke up from the biopsy, my better half leaned over to me and saidI am sorry they had to stop after the first biopsy it was clear the answer we did not want to hear. Stage IV.
The next week seemed like a blur. Numerous visits to the doctors, the many conversations with family, friends and my Air Force family kept me so busy that time flew by.  It was a difficult time for family and friends as you can imagine, but what about me? I must say my Air Force family ensured I was taken care of. I have never felt so much support, encouragement and help from my co-workers, my supervisors and Air Force leadership. I had found out that the people I was surrounded with at work was more than being supervisors, mentors and Commanders. They were truly caring friends and family. It takes a great team to complete truly difficult missions and tasks, but this is different. A different realm outside of reality. A reality of epic proportions of fear, emotional distress and great depression. I did not have a team by my side. I did not have a strong AF team, I had a strong family: Chief Juan Lewis, Lt Col Jonathan Webb, Mr. Carlos Bassut, 2nd Lt John Leno and Colonel Robert Hoff led this family. Each of them helped me get through this very difficult time and above all, Colonel Hoff made the almost impossible happen.
The initial prognosis was that I had less than six months to live without treatment.  With treatment I would have a 50 percent chance of survive to live one year. I was determined to fight and go through the treatments. However, I also wanted to spend whatever remaining time with my family should the treatments be unsuccessful. It had been over six weeks since I found out that I have cancer and did not start treatment yet. I had also found out if I started the treatments, I would not be allowed to leave California and go to Illinois to be with my family. Finally the day came when I was told that I will start my chemo treatments and I had to prepare.  That same day I told my leadership, I had a visit from the Group Support Commander. Colonel Hoff had come to my office and we had a great conversation. During which he asked me if I was willing to delay the treatments a short while to give him a chance at getting me to my family. Once again, if I started the treatment, I would not be allowed to travel due to how weak I will become and it would be dangerous. I had been told I had an aggressive form of cancer. And I did not have long to wait to start the treatments. It had already been six weeks since diagnosis, however, I was willing to wait more if it meant that I would be with my family sooner. Was I hurting my chances of a successful battle? Perhaps, but I had to choose not to be selfish. Yes, I could have stayed in California and started treatments right away, but what if that path led to me only surviving a few months? I had to get to family, just in case I did only have a few months, at least the family will have more good memories with me. The very next day, Colonel Hoff had come back to my office and told me he had not only talked with Edwards AFB leadership, but also the base hospital.  He had coordinated my successful transfer to Scott AFB in Illinois.  In less than 24 hours from our conversation I had the approval to move and within one week my household goods were packed and Sheri and I were on the road driving to Illinois. Thank you very much Colonel Hoff!! 
Within the first week after arrival in Illinois, I had started chemo and it was truly a trial. I will spare everyone with the details, but I can say, it will challenge anyone's nerves, stamina and attitude. Many CATSCANs, blood tests, chemo treatments and their side effects have taxed me during the past 10 months. Each and every CATSCAN had caused new stress. What would the scans reveal? Did the cancer spread? Did they increase in size or shrink? I had been very fortunate in each of my scans: No significant growth which meant, good news. I had been told a few months ago that the doctors are not trying to fight and defeat the cancer. It is too late for that. However, they are trying to give me time. As much time as I can get to enjoy life a little longer. Keep in mind, everyone is different and there are such things as miracles, you just have to be positive and believe. 
Yesterday I had another CATSCAN and today I found out what the results were.  As usual, stress is an incredible powerful event. It was good news once again. No growth and one lymph node showed small shrinkage (.3 difference). That news of relief was great to hear and that will keep me going for another couple of months till the next scan. I strongly believe that my positive attitude and strong will has not only kept the cancer at bay, but truly increased my quality of life. Sure, I could have stayed at home, wallow in self-pity and not allow myself the chance to be happy. Instead, I chose a lifestyle of trying to take better care of myself, keep busy and try to always do things that make me happy. I had opportunities to get back into acting and although they were difficult I had to give it my all. The extreme drain of energy, sickness, depression and pain is cyclic in nature. Some days are better than others and I try and take advantage of those days as often as I can. 
I want to thank all my friends and family for your thoughts, prayers, fellowship and love during this past year.   Without each of you, life would be boring and less enjoyable. Let us not dwell on negativity, but on hope, love and happiness. This New Years, I want each of you to make a resolution: You will plan to do something special for yourself. Treat yourself to that special vacation you always wanted to go. Or perhaps, you can go on an adventuredeep ocean fishing, sky diving, scuba diving, climb a mountain, go on a 6 hour hike through the forest and mountains, create a stain glass window, go to Vegas and blow some money (who cares if you lose it all.. the focus is to have fun doing it) or maybe you could go to New York and see a Broadway show. Live life, experience things that you have been thinking about but have been putting it off. Sooner or later you will run out of time do not get to that point and have regrets. Live for today, plan for tomorrow and enjoy time with family, friends and most of all  treat yourself. No one can make you happy. Only you have that power. Take it by the horns, create those new happy memories and I hope to see you once again along the journey. Live long and prosper and may the force be with you.

I did not know Peter well.  He believe he was in the Air Force by the time  Tony was in Boy Scouts and I we were at your house each week.  I know the hurt will never go away.  But I know you are strong and have a wonderful family to help you.  That will mean so much. I know how Proud of Pete you are. May he RIP now.

I remember babysitting for Peter, Richie and Shawn, with my brother Martin and Diana and her friend, (sorry, can't remember her name), we had such a good time with the kids all giggles and laughter, and they were all so good. A few times they would sneak out of bed and creep down the hallway to see what we were doing in the living room. So cute! 
I will always remember that smile Peter!
Love,
Uncle Louie

We met almost 31 years ago. We were both in the air force and stationed at homestead afb in Florida. We were both living in the dorms and just happened to be doing laundry at the same time. You asked me out and we ended up getting married (I was 18 and you were 20) and having 2 sons and then a daughter.  Although things didn't work out I wouldn't change a thing. Our kids are the best part of what you and I had. I'm so sorry that this happened to you and that you won't be able to see the kids navigate adulthood or see our 2 beautiful grandbabies and future grandbabies grow up. I am so glad the kids were able to spend time with you over the last couple of years. From universal studios and the beach and the Keys and that they got to spend some time with you on fathers  day. I hope you are at peace now and we will meet again.

You will be forever missed uncle Pete. Love you always.

You are missed and will forever be in my heart dad. I will never forget all of our great adventures we have had. From our summer in Germany visiting Italy and France, to the florida trips, you have given me some adventures i will never forget. Life took you from us all too soon, but i know you are off having your next great adventure. I will see you again someday, and we will have some more as well.

My dear cousin Peter,
It is obvious how much everyone loved and admired you! We were miles away and had our own lives but when we talked...we were always close. Even though we were only 2 months apart, you always had great advise for me and I prayed you would live a lot longer than the, "experts" told you. God heard my prayers and blessed you and when it was too much for you to bear...he made you fall asleep.  I wish we had more time together but it seems God needed you more than I did. I love you Peter and will never forget you...you are in my heart forever!
Love Michelle

The one image that I keep in my head is when he would laugh. Whether he was playing a prank or telling one of his many stories. I've watched Peter grow into the man he became. We were so proud of all he accomplished in life. He set his sights and goals and he would work until he achieved those goals. His Uncle Charlie said it best when he said he accomplished more in one lifetime than most of us in three lifetimes.  We will miss you, but you are at peace now and no longer suffering. I am glad that you were a part of my life, and honored and proud to be your Dad. Rest in peace until we meet again!

The first time I met Pete he was 11 years old. I was only 17, dating his beautiful Aunt Diana, who later became my wife of 30+ years. I was picking up Diana, who was babysitting Peter and his siblings in her Brooklyn home in Park Avenue.  They climbed into my car and Pete kept asking me embarrassing questions. I knew then he was going to be a smart aleck.  Later, in High School, he was big into martial arts.  I always thought since he was so athletic he would join the Marines. I was surprised when he joined the Air Force.  I guess he witnessed how much I enjoyed my service in the Air Force and had decided to follow my footsteps.  I remember his mother Barbara telling me that Pete had called her from Basic Training. She asked him how it was going. He told his mom, They yell at me and tell me what to do all day and all night. I feel like I am home. Mom, you trained me well!!!  Still a smart Aleck.  I joined the Air force to see the world, but the best this native New Yorker got to do was spend 3 years at Griffiss AFB in Rome NY.  Now Peter, on the other hand, did see the world. He jumped out of airplanes. He helped in natural disasters all over the world. He actually served in the Red Hat squadron in Area 51. And maybe he did see Aliens there, but he would never disclose that to me.  In his 29 years 8 months and 5 days that he served proudly, he experienced what some of us could only dream of. I know, because I am one of those dreamers.  He may have only lived for 50 years, but he experienced what would take the average person 3 life times to complete.  He was soft spoken, but always made you think.  And because of that, you never saw it coming when he pulled a practical joke on you. Like spilling fake mustard on his mom's black dress as she is about to leave.  Of his 29+ years that he served in the USAF, he served 18 of them overseas.  He had witnessed the good and the bad humanity had to offer.  I would like to think that in his short 50 years of living he acted as God's angel.  Serving and protecting all that he could. And in the end, when all those years of being in harm's way finally took its toll on his fragile human body, God was merciful and ended his pain. His body may not be with us, but his spirit and his soul will remain with us till eternity.  We love you Pete!! Rest in Peace!!
Your very proud USAF Veteran,
Uncle Charlie

I never met Peter, but I "knew" him through his Mom.  I've known Barbara since the mid-90's, when we both worked for New York State Department of Labor in Hicksville.  Barbara was very proud of Pete.  He accomplished a lot in his short life and seemed to be one of those people who could figure out how to live a wonderful life.  His memory will not fade, he'll live on in the memories of his loved ones.

He always talked about his family and how he loved his parents, his kids and brothers and sister he was so positive. He was a hero our family is be proud of...all the work that he did!

Pete, you were my very first nephew, but you felt more like my little brother. My favorite childhood memory of you is waiting for you by the window everyday after school when, instead of going straight home you would make a detour to grandma & grandpa Chevalier's house, and my Mom would make you hot chocolate.  I can still see you with you little school bag, coat and hat on, as if it were only yesterday.  So brave and determined you were, to do your own thing. You grew to become an amazing man with an outstanding military career and purposed in your heart to accomplish all you set out to do. Those few times I got to spend with you these past couple years while visiting in Florida and hearing all of your amazing stories and accomplishments has meant so much to me and you inspired me to make the most of each day no matter what life throws at you. I will cherish them forever and hold you close to my heart. I am truly and deeply honored to be your Aunt Cindy and so very proud of you! These last few days have been so difficult because we just simply didn't have you here with us long enough...I will miss you dearly and I will never forget you my amazing nephew Peter...a true Chevalier! I'll love you forever ❤

Uncle Pete, I miss you so much. I will always remember our great memories we created together. I have been seeing all your signs, your butterflies and dragonflies have helped remind me of the good times we had together. I will never forget our trips to Universal Studios, where you helped me face my fears.You always taught me to do what I wanted in my life. You taught me to never give up on anything, and I thank you for that. Thank you for all those life lessons, I will always remember them. I love you and miss you and I will see you soon.

Better part of valor, that is the war cry we let our every time we hand to run away from combat in any video game. You would always make it exciting when showing us something new in game and in real life. I will never forget the grand memories you have brought to the table. Love you.

Love, light and blessings dear cousin. May your journey be a peaceful one. Aho!

I never met Peter nor any of the family his Mom and I are Facebook friends I have enjoyed so many pictures of the family and stories she has shared rip Peter

I didn't know you Peter but I know you through your Mom Rest in Peace

We are all so lucky to have a man like you to protect us and our country!  You are such a beautiful man.  We are all lucky that you are now in a place of beauty and peace!  Your job continues with all your love and protection; only now, you have a a mightier force and protect those you love.  We know you are at peace and happy by the way you send the beautiful winged butterflies.

I have seen Peter through the eyes of his mother and I have seen him through the eyes of an appreciative citizen for his selfless service to our nation. He is a hero in every sense of the word. My heart aches for his family, the world has lost a truly great man. He will me missed, he will always be loved and never forgotten. Until we see him again, I know he is in God's hands and being loved even more than we can love him here. God Bless.

A most Honorable Tribute ..Pete has made a huge contribution to the world..Barbara you are a most loving mother ..your child turned out to be a GREAT man ..my heart breaks for your loss ..the only comfort is that he is not in pain anymore..I pray that God gives you the strength to endure the sorrow you are facing .. RIP Peter you made the World a Better Place

I didnt know you but know your mother she is such a wonderful person ican see how you turned out to be such a woderful son father and husband to your familey your mothers heart is broken but sh knows your rip iin your eternal life

I remember you as a tiny baby - the first grandchild. I want you to know that I loved you like you were my own child, and always followed what you did. I will always remember you, and keep you in my heart.- Aunt Annette

We love you and you will always be in our hearts - Aunt Annette & family

Till we are together again, My Love, I'll be missing and loving you!

Peter J. Chevalier, Chief Master Sergeant United States Air Force (retired). He accomplished a lot in his 50 years on earth and he did everything he wanted to do. He entered the Air Force at age 18 and achieved the highest rank he could achieve as a Non-Commissioned Officer. He traveled all over the World and was in the middle East so many times that they added up to years and not months. He was on the ground, at some point, in every major conflict that the U.S. was involved in during the past 32 years. He earned and received his Bachelor Degree in Human Resources. He was the Father to Marc, Jeremy and Kristian and the Grandfather to Ali Lynn and Ashton. He knew he missed a great deal of time with his children while they were growing up, because of his overseas commitments, but he always thought of them and loved them. His Progeny - most of all - are his legacy. I have always been proud of him and never was sorry to have given birth to him (at 16) and keeping him with me. I may not have always been the best Mother but I loved him more than life. I will miss him until the day I die and then I will happily be with him again. Everyone in the family is devastated by this loss and even though we knew the end could come - somehow we never believed it would. My heart is breaking but I am glad that he is no longer suffering and that he is in God's loving care. He knew he would see his loved ones that were waiting for him in Heaven -and Peter is already communicating that he is there. God has another Angel . He will be buried in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis Missouri with full Military Honors. Thank you all for your love and support. Funeral arrangements for Peter J. Chevalier: Lake View Funeral Home, 4000 N. Illinois St, Fairview Heights, IL. 62208 618-233-7200. Viewing/wake Sunday August 7th from 3-4 pm for family only and 4-7 pm open visitation. Masonic service for Mason's only 7-8 pm. Monday, August 8th, service at Lake View at 11 am with procession, immediately following from Lake View, to Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery with Interment at 1:30 pm.

One thing I will always cherish,
No matter what life sends,
A memory of the happiness,
Just being friends.

My deepest sympathies.........

Pete was a giant personality in a compact body. He grabbed life by the horns and never let go. I am sad to see him go, but happy I had the chance to be his coworker and his friend.

The world lost a great person and it was an honor to serve with him. He was a good mentor and friend. Rest in peace Pete.

My condolences.  Had the pleasure to work with Pete in Stuttgart. A great man and leader who always had a smile and joke, and took the time to help Army guys like me try to understand the Air Force.

It was my honor and privilege to know and work with Pete.  My deepest sympathies to his family and vast number of friends.

The world has lost a positive, determined, selfless man. May the wonderful memories he has left his family and friends with, help them heal in their time of loss. 
We were lucky and blessed to have known you. 
COL (R) Michael and Mrs. Denise Godfrey

For those of us who knew, worked and played with Pete, this is a sad day for all of us. Pete was an amazing guy with a great sense of humor. One quick war story that sums this fine man up. When Pete first retired out of EUCOM, he did so because of high year tenure meaning if you don't get promoted by a certain year point, the USAF forces you out the door. Pete's retirement papers were in when he met the Chief Master Sergeant board one last time. When our organization tried to give him a retirement ceremony, Pete insisted this move was a going away party and that he would make Chief. In fact, he also stated he was going to pursue an acting career. Many folks laughed under their breath and didn't take Pete seriously. Well, Pete had the last laugh. He indeed did get selected for promotion to Chief (the Air Force's highest enlisted grade) and he also got hired for several small acting parts. Never question a man's will and Pete had a spirit and determination that few possess. This determination helped him fight cancer for many years before God finally took him away. RIP Pete...we all miss you!

Even though we never met, the light you shined on the world will truly be missed. Stephanie

MAY HE RIP I DIDNT KNOW HIM BUT HIS MOTHER IS A FRIEND OF MINE SHE LOVED HIM SO AND WAS ALWAYS BRAGGING ABOUT HIM SHE LOVED HIM SO MAY ALL THE FAMILEY BE AT PEACE KNOWING HES FLYING HIGH WITH THE ANGELS SUCH AN HONABLE MAN PRAYERS FOR ALL CONCERNED

Peter, words can't express the pain we all feel. You are a true inspiration to us all. That fighting spirit kept you with us much longer than even doctors had imagined possible. You put up a strong and valiant fight! ! I know you are up there watching over us all now!! I am proud to call you my nephew! You will be missed and loved forever! Until we meet again ....you will forever remain in my heart! I love you! ❤

Thank-you for your service above self....You are a true American Hero.....may you rest in peace...and all of those you have touched and taught...will carry on your legacy....Gods speed......Christine..NYPD

You are a remarkable fellow, Pete. Light guide you in this next journey.You will be missed.

Brother Pete, you will be truly missed. Your brother Kye 32 degree

MAY YOU REST IN PEACE MY DEAR NEPHEW AND GODSON.LOVED YOU ALWAYS.

My Nephew, from that day I saw you running dowbn the street calling my name in a snow storm in Brooklyn, boogers coming out your nose, Japanese Bomber hat and little brown leather shoes. I fell in love with you kid! See you soon! Uncle Steven

Pete you were a big part of my life you gave me marc, Jeremy, and Kristen, you will forever be in my heart

OBITUARY

CMSGT Peter J. Chevalier

December 16, 1965 – August 3, 2016

Lake View Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens

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