It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Peter Edward Mayer, who died on July 11, 2026, at the age of 80.

Pete was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Joseph Mayer and Greta Novak Mayer. He graduated from Wisconsin Lutheran High School in 1964 and later earned a degree in Criminal Justice from Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC).

Pete shared 33 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Shirley Mayer, of Rio Rancho, New Mexico.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Greta Mayer.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Shirley Mayer; his brother, Joseph Mayer and his wife, Cathy; his niece, Emily Moeller; his son-in-law, Andrew, and grandson, Jonah, of Missouri City, Texas; his niece, Nora Eiche, and her husband, Peter, of Port Charlotte, Florida; his son-in-law, Tyler Gurnett, and his wife, Lynn, of Tucson, Arizona; his nephews Josh Gurnett and his wife, Cindhuri, Casey Gurnett and his girlfriend, Courtney, and Riley Gurnett, all of Tucson, Arizona; his stepsons, Johnny Shafer and Kelly Shafer, of Tucson, Arizona; and his faithful dog, Buddy.

Pete proudly served his country as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps, serving four years, including service in Vietnam. His dedication to public service continued throughout his career as he worked for local, state, and federal government agencies. He was honored to be appointed by Governor Johnson to serve on the Juvenile Parole Board.

A proud patriot, Pete had a deep appreciation for American history and the Old West. He especially enjoyed watching classic westerns featuring Roy Rogers and Hopalong Cassidy. He was a member of the American Diabetes Association, the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, the National Rifle Association (NRA), Shriners International, and the Humane Society.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 10:00 a.m., at Daniels Family Funeral Services, 4310 Sara Road SE, Rio Rancho, New Mexico. Graveside services with military honors will follow at 12:30 p.m. at Santa Fe National Cemetery.

Pete will be remembered for his love of family, his unwavering patriotism, his dedicated service to his country and community, and the kindness and loyalty he shared with those who knew him.