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At 94, Peter Albert Tuohy ("Pete") crossed over and beyond the Golden Arches, heading straight to the first tee on May 4, 2026, in Palm Desert, California, with two daughters and two granddaughters by his side.
Pete was born on July 30, 1931, to Albert and Melba Tuohy in Seattle, Washington. A proud member of Garfield High School's Class of 1949, he maintained lifelong friendships with several of his closest classmates—his cherished "pals." He attended the University of Washington, graduating with a business degree in 1953. While at the University of Washington, he served as senior class president, was an active member of the Delta Upsilon fraternity and enthusiastically participated in numerous campus activities. Throughout his life, Pete remained a loyal and devoted Husky fan. He truly loved his Dawgs.
Following graduation, Pete proudly served in the United States Army before beginning his business career. After a brief stint with Scott Paper, he joined Merrill Lynch as a stockbroker, working in New York, Los Angeles and Tacoma. Driven by his entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to go into business for himself, Pete became a McDonald's franchise owner-operator in 1974. He opened his first restaurant in Aberdeen, Washington, then expanded to Hoquiam and Ocean Shores. Opportunity knocked in Lewis County, where he added restaurants in Chehalis, Centralia and Napavine.
Pete married Carol Strayer in 1980, and together they built both a life and a business. Their McDonald's franchises grew to eight restaurants before passing daily operations to Carol's daughter, Shari, in 1996. By 1986, Pete and Carol had become part-time desert snowbirds, eventually making the desert their permanent home in 2013.
Those who knew Pete best knew his happiest moments were spent outdoors, especially on the golf course, where he fostered many fairway friendships over the years. He loved to travel, never missed cheering on the Huskies during football season and faithfully observed the 5 p.m. cocktail hour with a Manhattan in hand. His love of music spanned from smooth jazz to the sounds of the Bee Gees.
Growing up with my dad was always an adventure. From rallying at Husky games to looking forward to our trips to the desert, we shared so many experiences I will always remember. No matter what life brought his way, Dad always maintained a positive attitude and was there to support me. I will miss him dearly.
Pete's spirit is forever "Stayin' Alive" in the hearts of his daughters, Angela (Mike), Shari (Scott) and Ann; his son, Mike (Lue); his granddaughters, Kirsti (Drew), Alexus (Mike) and Whitney; his four great-grandchildren; his lifelong pals; and his many golf buddies.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Melba Tuohy; Fredine Tuohy, who shared many years of his life; and Carol, his beloved wife of 38 years. We take comfort in knowing Pete reunited with those he loved, beyond the Golden Arches and back on the fairways.
A remembrance service celebrating a life well lived will be held at 10 a.m. Nov. 5, 2026, at Forest Lawn in Cathedral City, California.
Memorial donations in Pete's honor may be made to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Western Washington or the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission, two organizations that held a special place in his heart.
