Peter J. Eichten

Peter, age 69, was born to David and Eleanor Eichten and grew up in St. Paul, Minnesota. He died in Minneapolis, Minnesota on March 13, 2020 after a long illness. He graduated from Immaculate Heart of Mary Elementary School, Cretin High School and the University of Minnesota.  Peter valued his education and, in turn, chose teaching as his career. He was a respected educator and contributed much to the field of special education.  Living and working in nature brought him great joy. He frequently organized trips to the Boundary Waters and introduced even the youngest family members to camping. Dogs were his constant companions. From Dusty through Fala, one was usually by his side.  When he could no longer have his own, he delighted in visits from other dogs.  Peter believed in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. As a man of faith, he shared his beliefs in both words and actions. Throughout his life, he reached out to the poor, the disadvantaged and the lonely. Peter is survived by his beloved partner, Rebecca Lutz; devoted friend, Frank Feinberg; son, Gregory (Laura Jean); grandson, Calvin; sister, Ellen; brothers, David and Philip; nephews, Christopher and Timothy Jirak; nieces, Anne Jirak, Laurie Quinn and Lisa Birkeland; and many grand-nephews and -nieces.  A celebration of Peter’s life will be held at a later date; the details will be posted when available.