Peter B. Wechsler, 59

Peter B. Wechsler, 59, joined his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in Heaven on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2014, with his family by his side.

Peter was born April 23, 1955, to Orin and Elizabeth Wechsler in Seattle, Wash. Growing up, Pete was an active little boy that loved the outdoors - riding his bike, swimming, diving, and shooting baskets even after it got dark. He also had more than a hint of daring, which carried through to his adulthood.

Pete often tagged around with his dad on the property. Before he was old enough to do any hiking, his dad carried him into the mountains in a special carrier on his back. He taught him things like how to fish, how to build a campfire and cook food over it, how to build a shelter with a simple tarp, and how to identify animal tracks.

Pete grew up with three big sisters who were known to occasionally boss him around, which helped him to learn how to stand up for himself. He graduated from Seattle Christian, where he went to school for all 12 years. After graduation in 1973, Pete moved to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, where he learned the drywall trade from his brother-in-law.

Pete was the co-owner of Unlimited Drywall & Stucco, which he operated with his friend Jimmy George for over 30 years. He was an avid adventurer and loved to travel the world with his family and friends.

Pete also had many hobbies and interests which included scuba diving, hunting, boating, gardening, hiking, and playing racquetball. He had a wonderful sense of humor and would often make people laugh with his many jokes. Pete was known as the master of games, often organizing events for his family and friends to get together and play.

The most important part of Pete's life was his faith in Jesus Christ. He was an active member of North Country Chapel in Post Falls. Pete was always ready to lend a helping hand; he demonstrated his faith daily by constantly serving others. His love of music started very young, where he would get out a music stand and direct the family in singing hymns during family devotions. This prepared him to faithfully serve Jesus through a music and Bible study ministry at Ivy Court, an assisted living facility. Pete also taught Sunday school for many years at Christ the King Lutheran Church.

Pete was devoted to his family and is survived by his wife of 30 years, Lois Wechsler; his three daughters: Candace Sexton (Tony), Michelle Tufte (Brent) and Jill Mix (Steve); grandsons Hunter Mix, Forrest Tufte, Tait Tufte and Anthony Sexton; his mother, Elizabeth Wechsler; three sisters: Judy Boyce (Keener), Ann Mannering (John) and Nancy Siems (Bill); his many nieces and nephews; and his loyal furry companion, Sasha.

A memorial service is planned for 2 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 21, at North Country Chapel in Post Falls. Please sign Peter's registry and view his online memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.