Dennis 'Pete' Townsend, 79

Dennis “Pete” Townsend passed away peacefully at home with family in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, on July 4, 2023. The grand finale fireworks were surely, in some way, a regard to him. Pete was born in Pocatello, Idaho, on July 27, 1943, to Lucille and Tom Townsend, who preceded him.

Pete is survived by his wife of 34 years, Judy Chapin Bundy; his children, son Ross and wife, Elizabeth Townsend, of Ireland, daughter Amy and husband, Chris Nathan, of Nashville, Tenn.; stepson Robin Bundy; and grandsons Sander Bundy and Flynn Bundy of Coeur d’Alene; and daughter Erin Bundy and husband, Rick Lucke, of Coeur d’Alene; brother Jon and wife, Suzanne Townsend, of Portland, Ore.; and sister Susan Townsend of Marysville, Calif.

Pete attended Pocatello High School in Pocatello, Idaho, Class of 1961, college at Idaho State University and graduate school at the University of Washington, where he earned a master’s degree in counseling in education. He worked a full career helping students as a counselor at University High School in Spokane, Wash., until his retirement, and then worked several more years advising students as the professional technical coordinator at North Idaho College in Coeur d’Alene. He loved education, was always a supporter of public schools, loved to challenge others to think critically and fact-check, and enjoyed helping students find the right studies, programs and careers for each of them as unique individuals.

Pete loved the outdoors and sports, such as skiing, kayaking, basketball and riding his electric bike, and he announced GSL football and basketball games for many years in Spokane. He drew many comments and smiles every year when he would paint his bald head with a logo for tournaments. He loved to travel and have adventures, and no destination was too close or too far. Pete especially loved family get-togethers, visiting and having a beer with friends. He enjoyed discussing a myriad of topics of the world, politics, sports and hearing about the lives of friends and family. He often said, “Life is about the people.”

We will miss his clever sense of humor and quick wit, how he never took himself too seriously, his kind way of listening and considering everyone’s views and his ability to recognize and complement each person’s strengths, as he genuinely liked people and found each person interesting.

Pete requested a small family gathering, so there will be no formal service held. The family requests any remembrance be given to Idaho State University in Pocatello and/or Hospice of North Idaho, Schneidmiller House, Coeur d’Alene.

Yates Funeral Home is entrusted with final arrangements. Please visit Pete’s online memorial and sign his guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.