Lt. Col. Wesley "Pete" Gunn (1942 - 2016)

Pete Gunn of Niceville, FL passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 14, surrounded by his family. Pete was born on Dec 11, 1942, in Millerville, AL.

He graduated from Hoover HS in Birmingham in 1960. He attended Auburn University, where he earned a degree in Aeronautical Engineering in 1967.

Subsequently, Pete was commissioned as a 2Lt and entered active duty in the US Air Force. After becoming a pilot, he was assigned overseas, where he flew combat missions over North Vietnam in the F-4 Phantom.

After returning to the US, Pete continued his active duty military career, totaling 13 years, then transitioned to the Reserves, and became Chief Pilot for the AC-130 gunship at the 919th SOG at Duke Field, for an additional 15 years. He received numerous awards and decorations, most of which were earned in combat. He retired from the USAF as a Lt Col after serving a total of 28 years.

While in the reserves he also worked as a Chief Engineer with the Air Force Federal Civil Service. His leadership was pivotal on several Weapon Systems programs, where he worked tirelessly to provide the proper tools to the warriors from the Eglin Air Armament Center. He retired from government service as a GS-15 in 2002.

Pete will always be remembered by his many friends for his boisterous personality, and never shying away from any controversial issue. He was a fiercely loyal friend and colleague, encouraged all, kicking tail when necessary, but always having a cold beer (or two) waiting at the end of the day.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Betsy, and three children: son Derek Gunn and granddaughter Azzy, daughter Gina Stevens and grandchildren Josyd, Hannah, and Gabriel, and daughter Jessica Gunn.

Per Pete's wishes, there will be no traditional service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Distinguished Young Women of Okaloosa County, PO Box 642, Niceville, FL 32588-0642.

In accordance with his wishes, a Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, April 23 at Beef O' Bradys in Bluewater Bay from 7 – 10 PM. Please join his family and friends in remembering Pete and sharing memories of his time with us. He will be missed by all.

War Eagle.