Yacht Club pays tribute to Pete Delia

A gathering of Canyon Lake residents assembled at the Holiday Harbor Guest Docks Friday to pay homage to Pete Delia, a long-standing resident of Canyon Lake who died Aug. 4. Pete was not only one of the founders of the Canyon Lake Car Club, but also a prominent figure in the Canyon Lake Yacht Club.

The Yacht Club orchestrated the event with the intention of acknowledging Delia‘s noteworthy contributions to the community. Against the backdrop of a large portrait featuring Pete and his late wife Suzi, numerous speakers took turns at the microphone. They recounted memories and anecdotes about Pete‘s spirited escapades and his unwavering readiness to offer assistance whenever the need arose.

A flower circle and green lights were thrown into the lake in honor of Pete and Suzie Delia. Famous for their Green Dragon in the Parade of Lights holiday boat parade, they were constantly volunteering at various Canyon Lake events. Photo provided by Ron Wilbur

As the tribute session drew to a close, the gathered crowd embarked on boats for a leisurely cruise around the Main Lake. The boats then converged at Catfish Cove and formed a ceremonial circle. In a tradition reminiscent of surfers who paddle out into the ocean to honor their departed comrades, individuals on the boats cast flowers into the circle.

The event was attended by 15 members from the Delia family. Among them were Pete and Suzi’s son Erik Hofmeister, who lives in Canyon Lake, and their daughter Elena.  Additionally, Joe Delia journeyed from Venice to attend the event, along with other relatives.