In Memoriam: Peter Paul Delia

PETER DELIA. Photo by Elena Aijala

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Peter Paul Delia, a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, caring brother, cherished friend, and respected member of the community.

Pete Delia, 80, of Canyon Lake, peacefully passed away on Aug. 4, 2023. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and countless cherished memories. His laughter, guidance, and support will forever be remembered.

He was born in Santa Monica, CA on March 23, 1943. Pete’s first childhood home was in Venice, CA after which his family moved to Mar Vista when he was about 12 years old.

Growing up, Pete had many friends. He loved working on cars, playing music and having parties. He also loved boysenberry pie, so his mother would buy it as a Sunday dessert. In 1961, Pete was in the first graduating class of Saint Bernard High School. Pete was always full of life.

Pete married his first wife, Dianne Marie Check, on April 16, 1966. Together they had four children, Tony, Elena, Sal, and Rick. Dianne and Pete later divorced.

In 1976, Pete and Suzi met and then later married on July 8, 1978. Pete married Suzi and informally adopted Suzi’s son, Erik. Pete and Suzi resided in Culver City, CA for 25 years before relocating to Canyon Lake.

Early on, Pete entered a plastering apprenticeship where he became a journeyman plasterer. Eventually, Pete helped his father run his plastering company, Vista Plastering. Before his father passed away, Pete became a C 35 license plastering contractor and took over his father’s business, renaming it Vista Plastering and Sons, Inc. Pete was a hard worker and made a good living in the plastering business.

Pete is survived by his children Tony Delia, Elena Aijala, Sal Delia, and stepson Erik Hofmeister, nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his two brothers, Joe and Richard Delia, and his two sisters Rita Muraski and Phyllis Sully. Peter was predeceased by his loving wife Suzi Delia and son Rick Delia.

Peter was involved in many clubs within Canyon Lake, including the Canyon Lake Yacht Club, the Canyon Lake Road Runners, and The Canyon Lake Car Club. Peter helped organize and participate in the Lake Clean Up and took pride in captaining the fire throwing Green Dragon boat every year in the Canyon Lake Parade of Lights holiday boat parade.

When he was not busy with the clubs, he loved to spend time on his patio waving at the neighbors or any boat that cruised by with Elvis playing in the background.

Anyone who knew Pete enjoyed his company, kindness, and willingness to help. He was always willing to help and took every task with a smile and a snarky remark. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Sept. 16 at the Canyon Lake Lodge. Friends and family are invited to join us as we pay tribute to a remarkable man who touched so many lives. Dress comfortably and in colors that remind you of Pete as we want this day to reflect the joy and warmth he brought to our lives.