Pete Van Dyke passed away unexpectedly on October 21, 2026, in Montana, doing what he loved: hunting. Pete was the world’s most loving husband and an incredible father. He was the true definition of a friend who would do anything for you; his selflessness and caring nature were unwavering.
Born November 25, 1959, in San Francisco to Joseph and Karen Van Dyke, Pete grew up in Petaluma, a place he always considered home. He spent his career in the printing industry, eventually moving his family to Oakdale and retiring in 2013.
Pete was a lifelong outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, camping, and spending time at his family’s cabin in Arnold. He cherished annual hunting trips to Montana with his son Greg and lifelong friend Rob Lee. A passionate Bay Area sports fan, Pete especially loved cheering on the Saint Mary’s Gaels. In retirement, he found a second home at Oakdale Golf and Country Club, where he built countless friendships and became an integral part of the club’s community.
Pete is survived by his beloved wife, Eileen; children Gregory (Jamie) Van Dyke, Melissa (Carson) Bernard, and Matthew Van Dyke; mother Karen Van Dyke; sisters Kathy Perkins and Diane (Chris) Thurman; grandson Jordan Russell; and three nieces. He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph, brother-in-law Bill Perkins, and nephew Sean Perkins.
Above all, Pete will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family and the countless lives he touched.
Visitation: November 15, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., Oak & River Funeral Home in Oakdale, CA. Funeral Mass: November 16, 12 p.m., St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Oakdale, followed by a Celebration of Life at Oakdale Golf and Country Club at 1:15 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial scholarship fund is being established, with details forthcoming.
The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader
The Riverbank (Calif.) News
Nov. 11, 2026