Peter A. Pascaris, born March 4, 1941, in Toledo, Ohio, passed away on March 7, 2024. He was a devoted educator, author, and advocate, leaving a lasting impact on his community.

Peter was a graduate of Wayne State University and dedicated 33 years of his life to teaching high school chemistry and mathematics in the Livonia Public Schools. His passion for education touched the lives of countless students throughout his career.

In addition to his work in education, Peter was a talented writer, publishing two fictional memoirs that reflected his personal experiences. "Desert Lily" delved into the complexities of love and heartbreak as his first wife, Donna, battled mental illness, while "Cast Your Own Shadow" explores his Greek heritage.

Peter was deeply committed to mental health advocacy and was actively involved in organizations such as Recovery International and the National Alliance on Mental Illness. He shared his personal story as a frequent speaker on the subject, striving to raise awareness and support for those affected by mental illness.

Beyond his professional and advocacy endeavors, Peter found joy in various interests, including gardening, baseball, politics, and reading. He cherished time spent with his blended family and took great pride in his role as a devoted "Pop."

Peter is survived by his beloved wife, Merrilee, his loving children Gail Pascaris, Matthew (Suzie) Pascaris, and Amanda (Matthew) Witgen, and his loving step-children Elizabeth (James) Foxley-O'Hagan, and Jimi (Lindsay) Foxley, as well as his cherished grandchildren Aibhlinn, Declan, Fintan, and Ailish. He is also survived by his dear brother, Tom (Donna) Pascaris. Peter was preceded in death by his first wife, Donna Lynn, beloved mother of Gail, Matthew, and Amanda, and his sister, Diane Pascaris.

Peter's legacy of compassion, resilience, and dedication will continue to inspire those who knew him. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and all whose lives he touched.

His family will welcome visitors on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at the L.J. Griffin Funeral Home, Northrop-Sassaman Chapel, 19091 Northville Road, Northville (at 7 Mile Road) from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  A Memorial Service will follow at 1:00 p.m.

Share your condolences, or a special memory, with the family on his Guestbook page.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Peter’s memory can be made to NAMI, National Alliance on Mental Illness. https://www.nami.org