Peter Kalakailo Jr., age 87, of Farmington Hills, entered into the perpetual light of eternal life on June 22, 2025.

Peter was born on February 14, 1938, in Detroit, MI, the son of the late Peter Kalakailo Sr. and Antonina (Trybel) Kalakailo.

He was Raised in Detroit, Michigan and he graduated from Cooley HS and Wayne State University. His decades' long engineering career began at the Redstone project as a team member responsible for designing and developing the Saturn rockets in the early '60s. Then his work took him to Fostoria, Ohio where he met his first wife, Margaret (Peggy). When he was hired by Ford Motor Company, the couple moved to Ann Arbor, MI where they raised their family of four children, Heidi, Andrew, Nick, and Emily.

As time passed and his first marriage ended, Peter continued to live in Ann Arbor. And, as the adult children moved on with their own lives, he was reunited with a childhood friend, and the love of his life, Estelle. Estelle and Peter were married on October 9, 1999. For the next 25 years, Peter and Estelle lived a full life as retirees which included traveling the world, frequently jumping in Lake Michigan, and spending time with friends. They hosted the greatest holiday parties with their adult children and grandchildren.

Peter loved golfing, was a voracious reader, and appreciated the arts. He spent many Sundays as an usher at Farmington United Methodist Church.

Peter, known as Papa to his grandchildren, was the kindest of men.  He had a calm way about him that put others at ease. He listened to others, always, without agenda or judgment. He looked for the best in the hearts of others. In doing so, those closest to him learned that if they led with their own hearts, listened closely to others first, that they'd likely find their own way too. Peter's generous spirit lifted up many friends and family members in times of need.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Maryann.

Pete is survived by his beloved wife, Estelle Kalakailo, and his loving children Heidi Kalakailo, Andrew Kalakailo, Nicholas Kalakailo, and Emily (Liam) Scott. Grandchildren include Sara, Ancel, Isabella, Sophia, and Joseph. He is also survived by his loving step-children Ed Furst and Kirsten (Joe) Cava. The grandchildren include Coleman, Brooke, Haley, Shelby, and Matthew. Peter and Estelle's wonderful family also includes 14 great grandchildren. While each family member will miss him, they will remember how Peter, their father, their grandfather, and their great grandfather impacted their lives for the better.

The Kalakailo family will receive friends Friday, June 27, 2-8 pm at the funeral home.  A rosary service will be held at 7 pm.

A funeral service for Peter will he held at his church, First United Methodist of Farmington, 33112 Grand River, Saturday, June 28, 11 am.  A gathering for family and friends will begin at 10 am at the church.

Peter will be laid to rest privately at Roseland Park Cemetery, Berkley, MI.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to either Detroit Institute of Art or Detroit Symphony Orchestra in his name.  Please use the links provided to donate.

Please keep his entire family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.