The Pete Duel Memorial Book

Thank you to everyone who leaves such poignant and heartfelt expressions in The Memorial Book—and for all your kind words about this site. Your kinship is extremely appreciated. —Laura


Please post your thoughts below. The previous Memorial Book was receiving too much spam, so I had to close it and start this page instead. The previous memorial page also had hundreds of remembrances. I hope to someday transfer them here.

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There may be a delay between when you leave your thoughts below and when your post appears, but rest assured, the post will eventually be published. Please keep in mind that many questions still remain about Peter’s state of mind in those final days of his life. One recent question is how much of a role the anti-seizure drug, Dilantin, played on his thoughts. Perhaps Pete was a victim of a pharmaceutical drug and not so much of self-inflicted depression. Also note that Geoffrey Deuel sometimes visits this page. Thank you.

Comments (509)

  1. Susan Kempster :

    Dear Pete another year has nearly passed but this last day is still so hard to get through without that horrible memory of what happened on this new years eve in 1971.Time may pass but you are still so fresh to me in my mind you will never be forgotten Pete God bless you love you always from Sussex.

  2. Mary :

    It’s that day again. I cannot celebrate, but I *do* remember… Thank you, Pete, and God Bless you. My thoughts and prayers are with Geoffrey, Pamela and all your family and friends, Ben and Roger… Thank you, Laura, for all your work in creating this treasured memorial. Wishing everyone here a happy, peaceful and prosperous 2018

  3. Margaret :

    You are never far from my thoughts but remembering you especially today. May you always rest in peace. And thinking too of your family and friends – the people who really knew and loved you.

  4. L.D.zafar :

    Thanking of you always this time of year….you will always be close to those that loved and cared for you. Smile on with that beautiful grin and watch over us. With love 💕 always until the end days. You will live on in every drop of rain, every breeze against my cheek, every tree in the forest, every splash of the brook, every beautiful sunset over the mountains shrouded in mist, and every call of the loon. As long as there is the spirit of wild places you will be eternal….peace and ecology now and forever!

  5. Joaquin Santos :

    Dear Pete. As another year passes by,your memory shall survive. I will continue to hold you dear in my thoughts and in my prayers. May God give you the peace you so richly deserved. A Friend. Jack.

  6. Jackie Tart Tew :

    My father died on January 6, 1971, and it was a hard time for me. Only a few weeks later, “Alias Smith and Jones” debuted on TV. I fell in love with the program and especially Pete Duel. I was 13 at the time, and I looked so forward to seeing him and the program every week. I loved every episode, especially the comaraderie between him and Ben Murphy. It was the most perfect show, with just the right amounts of drama and comedy. Sadly, on December 31 of that same year, and barely a year since my father’s death, I heard on the radio that Pete was dead, possibly from a self-inflicted wound. I was crushed. It was losing another loved one all over again. But there was no one to talk to and cry with except one good friend at school. I’ve carried Pete’s memory and my love of him and the show all these years. To be honest, part of me wanted to kill myself back then so I could be with him. But I realized that wasn’t right. From reading the articles here about his life and struggles, things I had no idea of back then, I can understand the desperation he was probably feeling from both physical, mental, professional and personal struggles and his own perfectionism. I’ve lived with similar problems all my life, and I’m 60 years old now. It’s hard even with today’s therapy and medication, but there are still days I want to leave it all behind. I don’t believe suicide is a mortal sin. It is a sickness or culmination of a sickness the same as with cancer. I’m still sad for his family and friends. They are the ones who truly suffered from his loss. But I will always remember and love him in the only way I could. Thank you, Pete, for all the joy you brought to your fans. I pray you found peace and joy in the arms of the angels and that one day we will all be reunited in God’s love.

  7. Jackie Tart Tew :

    I also believe, based on what I’ve learned about his life recently and my own personal experiences, that yes, he probably was bipolar. If only he could have gotten proper treatment back then. I will always love that man.

  8. Carol Nygaard :

    I remember when I first read of Peters’ death. It was Friday morning, Dec. 31, 1971. I felt so sad and depressed. It was something I couldn’t talk about to many people. My mom and the others said “He was just a television actor.” But I didn’t see him that way. I loved everything about him–especially how he cared for the environment and for the oppressed. It was hard to understand how he could do what he did. It’s because of him that I became interested in helping others with depression and alcoholism. I learned a great deal about these things. Now I understand a lot better why he might have done what he did. It’s too bad we didn’t have the treatments for those things like we do now. I know he would have gone on to do more and greater things. But we can be thankful that we had him in our lives, at least for a little while. He is sorely missed!!

  9. Kathy Kirkland :

    A beautiful light gone out way too soon. Forever remembered ,A beautiful being .So missed

  10. Abbey Dufficy :

    I first fell. In love with Pete Duel when I saw him on a T .V show called Gidget starring Sally Field .Pete played her brother in law. Then he was in another show calledLove on the roof Top.. Were talking the 1070’s. So when I saw Pete on Alias Smith and Jones . I fell in love all over again. I mean Ben Murphy wasn’t chopped liver but Peter with those dimples and his beautiful smile. .i just know that when he died he took a large piece of a lot of us. Because I still love that man.

  11. Madeleine :

    Pete, my first Love…how I cried over you.
    I Think your father was Swedish btw
    Love from Madeleine in Sweden

  12. Catherine :

    So, back in the 1990s, I ran across Alias Smith and Jones via the fannish samizdat VHS network. “This is delightful!” I said, and “oh my goodness, who is the dark haired one? He’s amazing! Why have I not seen him in a zillion other things?” And then I found out why. My friend stated a webpage, and we did a Snarkathon of most of the episodes (we were utterly giddy — I recently looked at the page for the first time in a very long while and our joy was apparent). And I wrote reams of fanfic, trying to complicate the show and give Pete the role he really deserved.

    . . . and hadn’t thought about it or him in a long time, until I ran across the DVDs in a going-out-of-business video store, and then found some old zines with my fanfic, and thought about what a waste it was. I know it’s dengerous to diagnose someone based on hearsay, but having been close to a number of people who are bipolar (including the person I’m married to), I’m thinking I have a pretty good guess as to what was going on with Pete. He was an amazing talent who could have gone on to do wonderful things, and I wish we’d been lucky enough to get those things. As it is, he elevated ASJ into something that still holds up. I’m so glad you’re carrying on his memory!

  13. Mary Beth :

    None of my family or friends understand my admiration and love for Pete Duel after all these years. I’m 59 now and loved Pete back in the days of Giget, Love on a Rooftop, and of course Alias Smith & Jones. It warms my heart to read all the beautiful and loving thoughts from his fans here. What a beautiful man he was who touched so many souls.

  14. Mary Beth :

    I understand why you would do that.

  15. Libe Hast :

    Every year since Pete’s death, though he passed away at 1:30 a.m., I have a two-minute silence for Pete at 5 till midnight on December 31st whilst holding a photograph of him. My family doesn’t understand why I do this, but somewhere in my soul is the answer. You will forever be missed by me and many others. Lots of love.

    Libe xxxx

  16. Joseph Swafford :

    I became a huge fan of Alias Smith and Jones a year before Pete’s death. I had a big poster of him in my room across from my Easy Rider on the opposite wall. He had a big effect on me in my aldolesence years, middle school etc. I remember most all episodes he and Ben did and when Roger Davis took over the role. I’ll never forget the night it was reported on the local news announcement of his death. Yes he had an effect on me along when Dan Blocker aka Hoss Cartwright died. But Pete was and still is an interesting person. What career he could of had and great rolls that could been his. I still think about him and the time when I was growing up. Also have the Volume Video Set Library of Alias Smith and Jones. Gone but not forgotten. RIP Pete.

  17. L.D.Zafar :

    Peace and Ecology Now and Forever!

  18. Agneta Gedda :

    It’s been a while since I visited this website but I’ll never forget Pete Duel, that tragedy, so awful. He was so talented and wonderful in many ways, he had it all coming, and why he gave it up. It is so sad!!! I wonder what he would have looked like today, a handsome elderly man! I miss him and I hope he is happy where he is. I love you forever Pete, and will never forget you.
    Lots of love from Agneta, Sweden

  19. Sue :

    I have just been watching vidios of Pete on YouTube but the one that made me so sad was the fan at Pete’s grave with the song remember when. There are so many moving tributes including who you’d be today with the lovely pictures of this darling man who I cannot remove from my mind and never want to things may take my mind away from him or a while but hr always comes back with the memories I will always treasure of him. He must have been a very special person to us fans to never be forgotten. Thankyou so very much laura for these lovely moving vidios you have done for us all to see and cry overxx.

  20. Ann Yarwood :

    Ann Yarwood – June 19, 2017, 7:35 pm

    I was 21years old when I found out what happened to Pete.
    I was so shocked, I find it hard to believe even now that Pete did this to himself.
    I sit and watch the clips of him over and over, for a short time it’s like he is still with us.
    I am now 66 years old and I am still hurting, over his loss.
    I hope Pete knows now just how many people’s hearts he enriched over his short time with us.

  21. Mari :

    I’ve read a few comments from people who only just discovered “whatever happened to” Pete. I can’t even imagine what an existence like that would feel like. Pete was the love of my young life. I wasn’t quite 12 years old, sitting in front of the TV, when my Dad rather casually mentioned that Pete had died the night before. Dad had no way of knowing, but my soul was crushed in that very moment. Pete has stayed with me, in my heart and daily prayers, ever since that terrible day. I went on to study acting and the theatre, although I never made a career of it. I can’t say that Pete was responsible for my choosing the theatre, but what I can say is this: if you have an actor’s heart and soul, you understand why Pete’s spirit still burns bright, and why, even today, he remains so vividly alive for so many of us.

  22. Lisa Greene :

    I just happened to find out about Pete’s death death after I googled Kim Darby. My husband and I used to watch Alias Smith & Jones, he was such a charming & adorable man. We are very saddened to learn of his death. God bless him, and here’s wishing him & his family peace always . .

  23. Rhonda C. Poynter :

    To quote Willie Nelson…my heroes have always been cowboys and they still are, it seems. First crush, first ‘look this actor up and read about him’ (and this was before the web!)…absolutely adored Pete, and still do. I love that he has such a loyal following – he deserves it. Peace –

  24. Angela :

    My mum and dad always watched Alias Smith and Jones,I was very young about 7 years old I think! I remember how sad they were on hearing about his death,only to lose my brother David the same way 10 years later. Pete and David, I am so sad you both felt so unable to overcome your pain, I hope you found peace somehow and those you left behind have too. X

  25. Joe :

    I was a youngin. 11 when this first aired. And it was probably my favorite show. Wish some network would bring it back. Maybe write metv or others to tell them if its possible it would bring in audience. Happy birthday Pete. And hope the rest of you are ok or in peace. Missed the show as well as other actors after Pete was gone. Love ya all. And all in the world. Keep peace and say. Howdy!! Bye now

  26. L.D.Zafar :

    Thinking of you and always wondering what you would look like on your 77th birthday yesterday…Always in my heart…with love in this life and the next….Peace and Ecology Now and Forever!

  27. Marianne :

    I’ll forget many things in my lifetime, but Peter I’ll never forget you.
    You are lovingly remembered every day but especially on your Birthday.
    A wish upon a star, to carry my love to wherever you are xXx

  28. Sue :

    Happy birthday dear Pete so sad your not hear to celebrate your 77th birthday.Its so hard to believe you would have been that
    Age today still miss you so much but I know you are happy in heaven god bless you you lovely manxxx.

  29. Karen Ravenscroft :

    Pete. Your birthday February 24th is forever remembered by me and now it is even more special as I welcomed my first grandaughter Ainsley Quinn in the early hours of this morning some 77 years to the day after you were born. Love Karen xx

  30. linda b uk :

    Peter i miss you and more each passing day,this day your birthday i miss you even more,your memory will never fade in my heart ,body or soul ,never will you be forgotten by me or the rest of your loyal posee,love you for all eternity peace ,love and ecology now Peter love lin x x xxx💟

  31. Gwen :

    February 24th has, as always, stirred up memories of Pete. I’m so glad we have DVDs available that allow us to bring him into our homes and reminisce about times gone by.

  32. Mary Rose :

    Remembering Pete’s birthday today with gratitude for his life, his work and his talent which brought so much joy to so many. I am convinced that Pete’s spirit lives; he is in a better place than this broken world. My love and thoughts are with Geoffrey, Pamela and all his family. Heartfelt thanks to Laura for this memorial site – beautiful.

  33. Avril, Edinburgh :

    We celebrate your birthday, but feel the loss of you even more on such a day. Your light will never dim, Pete. Much love. xx

  34. Vicki :

    Dear Peter,
    This is your birthday week. You are always loved and missed more than you know. We can never have you back but we will hold you in
    our hearts forever. Rest easy our dear sweet Peter. Thanks for the cherished memories.

    If there ever comes a day when we can’t be together, keep me in your heart, I’ll stay there forever.
    –Winnie the Pooh

  35. Louise :

    I was only 6 or 7 when you died, even at that age you were my first crush. Loved the show but wasn’t the same without you. You will always be remembered with a. Cheeky grin and beautiful dimples. Xx

  36. Margaret :

    Philip, It is lovely to hear your comments about Pete, but if you are thinking he was in the episode showing Joshua Smith learning poetry in order to make someone fall in love with him so that he could use her to save The Kid, then I’m afraid you are mistaken. This story was in Season 3 after Pete’s death. The episode was “The Ten Days That Shook Kid Curry”. It was Roger Davis playing the part of Hannibal Heyes. Nevertheless your admiration and joy of Pete’s acting is clear from your comments, and yes, we all loved this cheeky chap with a smile that could melt your heart!

  37. Susan McSorley :

    Dear Pete and Family…you will always be with us because of your great heart and the love, inspiration and talent you shared with us. I was 11 years old and my sister Holly ( also passed away) was 15 years old. We loved Pete So much – what a fine actor and good human being. God Bless his family…I am sure it is beyond difficult to lose such a one as Pete. What I do know is that after reading about his car accident and resulting head trauma/hip -pelvis trauma and having seizures as a result of his accident…A Huge Number of People with Brain Injuries are suicidal on and off for life ( Myself Included). Many (if not most young men in Petes day) self medicated with a bit of alcohol to soothe the brain/pain which is not something you can understand unless you have had head traumas! I watch his videos on youtube and am so mesmerized. What a tremendous loss. I hope that you know that many people like Pete consider suicide daily because they don’t have the right understanding of what they need to heal their Brains. He did the best he could until he couldn’t any longer. I am So sorry for your loss of such a beautiful brother and friend. Again, God Bless you All.

  38. Sandy :

    Reading so many loving comments about Peter Deuel all these years after his death mean so much to me. Pete and I were related (cousins) but unfortunately we saw their family very infrequently. But he has always held a special place in my heart. He accomplished much more than most actors trying to make it in the business and it’s so sad that he didn’t realize it. But I am well aware of how depression and alcohol can distort your thoughts. His death did impact his family in some ways that were positive, which is a blessing. I saw his sister, Pam, about 1 1/2 years ago as well as some of his other extended family. Unfortunately, it was another death in the family bringing us all together. Let us not ever forget Pete.

  39. Susan :

    My sister and I Adored Pete in Alias Smith & Jones. (Myself 10 and she 15 years old.). I have never forgotten him and now reading this story this evening I understand why he chose to end his life in a moment of despair. Something I could not fathom as a young girl because he appeared to be a God who had it all and more heart than most. He was ahead of his time in so many ways. Very sensitive and Kind hearted. You have done a wonderful tribute to him here ! God Bless…..I have had a brain injury also…strangely enough, and so I understand the extreme difficulties that come with that and know how I have also felt like ending it also due to side effects and depression at times.

  40. linda b uk :

    45 years gone my beautiful man,I would have liked to say time has healed the wounds of you leaving this world but in truth it hasn’t,i miss you even more if that is possible.Peter you are with me every day always will be,you are a joy, through the sadness when you smile on that silver screen my heart sings you truly are very special man,peace ,happiness and ecology now Mr Duel forever loved and never forgotten xxx

  41. Liza S :

    At 15, you were my first great crush…and then my first great loss. I had a teacher that wrote scripts for TV, and had us write one for our favorite show. I still have my script for Alis Smith and Jones…and I got an A on it. My kids later got to see the series on DVD, and my daughter was as smitten as I had been. We miss you dearly and wish there had been help for you when you needed it most.

  42. Anne :

    It was a day I can remember all too well where I stood when I heard the news. I watched him in Alias Smith and Jones every week and just “fell in love” with him. It took me quite sometime to get over the shock (I was 15) and as I look through this tonight 45 plus years later I finally understand what happened and why. So very sad and tragic. Who knows what he could have done in life. But that wasn’t meant to be. Still a sadness in my memories and heart of a wonderful young man that left too soon.

  43. Philip Drew, Surrey, UK :

    December 31st is always such a sad time for me when the legend that is Pete Duel was taken from us tragically too soon to walk through the saloon gates of heaven. Have told my 2 dear children of “Smith and Jones” and they have loved watching when ITV4 repeat the episodes and have said “why don’t they make programmes like that any more?” rather than the garbage of reality TV and the likes of The X Factor, numerous game shows just increasing the ego and wage packets of presenters who are not fit to tie the great man’s bootlaces. And they are so right.

    He had such a cheeky and devilish smile that captured the hearts of us all, we so wanted him to get married in the series but then we wouldn’t have seen the lads’s adventures I guess as he would have settled down! One episode I recall especially was his reciting poetry as a ruse to help the Kid out, claiming he was unable to write the words down……….and you thought he had found his belle but you knew it wouldn’t happen! Even made me cry and does to this day. We all miss him as can be seen by the beautiful words and verse put down here and for a man to have such an impact on us all here speaks volumes of what a great actor and talent he was and heaven took him way too soon forever reason on that fateful NYE night back in 1971.

    One thing for sure is that infectious smile is looking down from the stars above and probably winking at us all as a means of just saying “thanks guys, I didn’t do too bad!” – he was just a lovely guy, no airs and graces and a great actor. Pete, you might be gone but you’re never forgotten, we loved you here in the UK and are grateful for the pleasure and laughs you gave us as HH and hope God saw it fitting to give you your amnesty! Miss you mate so much

    My daughter is due to give birth to her first child, my first grandchild, on 24th February 2017 and how fitting that would be to have the same birthday as Pete……………..keep smiling on her or him please as I know you will xx

    Phil Drew, Surrey, UK

  44. PattyB :

    I was just telling my parents last nite, how one NYE stood out in my mind from my childhood, when my favorite actor shot himself. I said I think I was 10, and now see that’s correct. I was so devastated! What a talented and beautiful man he was… forever remembered.

  45. Liz - Leeds UK :

    Just to say I remember, though it doesn’t take any one day for me to think of you. You’re always in my thoughts and in my heart. You mean so much to so many of us, Love also to Geoff and to Jackie at this especially sad time of the year. Not forgetting how Pamela and family must be feeling too. Your gentle spirit lives on in all of us, Peter, while-ever we remember and we will never forget.

  46. Karen Ravenscroft :

    It never ceases to amaze me that no other celebrity seems so have such a loyal following of fans around the world that remember both Pete’s birthday and that fateful day we lost him. Forever in our hearts and minds that gentle soul and smile that made me week at the knees…love Karen XX

  47. Maggie :

    Miss you still 45 years on. Never forgotten xxxx

  48. Janice :

    45 years, can’ t believe it, I was 13 when I heard the news,absolutely gutted, I thought the world of you and always will, my love for ever

  49. Gary :

    Well i was 10 when you left us ,then i was broken hearted and at that age and year did not understand why,later in life i understood.i want you to know i wanted to invite you to supper and was going to write asking you if would come to a small town called windham maine.I dont believe it was the show that made you but you made the show.I think about you from the first time i saw that beautiful smile.I guess back then i had a crush on you and just maybe my first and even today looking back at you i believe it was.I loved the way you held your expressions,your eyes and of course the smile…miss you yoday as much i did then…

  50. DebsUK :

    Thinking of you today Pete. Forever in our hearts….never forgotten x

  51. Lucy, Arizona :

    I love when fans write “Rest Softly, Pete”. I believe he does. I miss him still, his smile, acting, love for animals, environment. Way ahead of his time. Gone longer than alive, however, still remembered. Precious gift is he.
    Thank you Laura and Geoffrey for keeping his memory alive. May you be blessed.

  52. Robbin :

    Hard to believe that we lost you 45 years ago, Peter. You were a wonderful talent, and great at whatever role you played. You are always missed. Rest in peace. Wish you were still here.

  53. Marianne, Hayle UK :

    I think of you in the morning Pete, I think of you at night,
    I think of you when it’s raining, or when the stars are bright.
    It doesn’t really matter, any time of day will do
    All I know is I miss you and will always love you too.

    I wish I could turn back the years, to have you live once more,
    To send your message of peace and ecology, just like you did before.
    To see you grow and love your life, is how it should have been,
    Would take away the sadness in my heart, for that I can only dream x

  54. Tom Becker :

    Dear Pete. Today it’s 45 years since you left us. I was only ten when the news broke that the star of my favorite TV-show had died. It was the first time in my life that I felt the loss of a person that I loved, and I still get that horrible feeling when I think of it. Thanks for what you ment to a little lonesome boy who looked forward to each time your show was aired.

    Tom, Raelingen, Norway.

  55. Don Harder :

    In Loving Memory Of Peter Ellstrom Deuel Pete Duel February 24, 1940 – December 31, 1971….. At the 45th Anniversary of Pete’s passing into Eternal Life…..Forever Remembered as Our Dear friend Hannibal Heyes……Don Harder December 30, 2016

  56. pat palmer :

    Beautiful Pete, held close in my heart and loved for always.x

  57. L.D.Zafar :

    With Love to Pete

    I find my self at a loss for words,
    not knowing what to say
    As I am finally standing here
    where you have so long laid;
    To honor promise made so long ago
    that took many a year to do so.
    I have loved you in my silence
    through all these many years
    Since the time that young girl
    for you, shed so many tears
    I have come full circle
    as I now pay tribute to you
    Something I felt deep in my soul
    and knew I had to do
    As long as I live your memory
    I will keep alive
    For love, my Pete, is stronger than death
    and will not ever die.
    The gentle breeze of the cool fall air
    touches my very soul.
    I know this time of year my friend,
    was something you cherished so
    The colors of the autumn leaves,
    the freshness of that cool little breeze,
    The call of the wild geese that fill the air,
    the bounty of nature seen every where….
    Yes, I too, reflect on these things
    as I think of you.
    When this day is done, and the night begins to set in,
    I wistfully think about the day it had been.
    As I wish upon a star, I sense my Pete
    You’re really not far.
    Everywhere in this beautiful place….the mountains,
    the forest, the colors of fall, I see the echoes of your face.
    I hope in the next life to see you again,
    until then, dear Pete, goodbye sweet friend….

  58. L.D.Zafar :

    Remembering you this evening on the anniversary of that dark night so long ago when we lost your physical presence but never your spirit. Love never dies it is carried with us throughout all our life times….

  59. Barbara :

    I still remember and I still love that smile. Peace to you Pete.

  60. Mary Rose :

    The saddest night of the year. Never forgotten

  61. Linda :

    45 years. So hard to believe. You are thought of everyday and missed everyday. Hope you found your peace and happiness in heaven. You deserve it! Peace and ecology now!

  62. Susan :

    After all these years I still get that horrible feeling in my tummy when I think of Pete and know that his been gone so long. Will always love him and will never forget him still so very sad God bless you pete you shine on in my heartxxx thank you Laura and Geoffrey and family for all you do for us true fansxxx.

  63. Avril, Edinburgh :

    You left way too soon, Pete. You are missed by so many, and although we can’t bring you back we can keep you close. Love always. Avril, Edinburgh.

  64. Marianne :

    It really doesn’t seem possible, 45 years since you left us.
    If only you could look back to see how you have been missed and are still loved by so many.
    Just a young man who had achieved so much in your 31 years, but you had so much more to give.
    I wish your dreams had come true to make you happy.
    I miss you as much now as I did then, forever with sadness in my heart but thank you for being a part of my life x

  65. Joaquin Santos :

    Gone but never Forgotten. May God be with you. You are Loved….Peace and Ecology now..and Forever.

  66. Vicki :

    Time will never diminish the love, respect and admiration I have for Pete. The artistic ability and talent he possessed were second to none.
    I am still in awe of the manner in which he could crawl into a character’s skin and once that transformation was complete the easiness in which he could achieve it. Pete was brilliant. He was an incredible human spirit and an amazing man. There was a beauty in that man that forever
    touched a chord in my soul. I would give anything in this world to be able to thank him. He will forever remain my hero.
    He is always and sorely missed. Peter, you are loved.

  67. Debbie :

    Pete was a great guy! It’s too bad he was depressed and had a drinking problem. I wish his family could have gotten him help! I don’t think Pete liked himself much and had poor self esteem. He was a great actor and given time would have been better. If he was in therphy he might still he here today, who knows? He was a good guy and I still think about him. WE miss you Pete and we LOVE you RIP!!!

  68. Mark :

    I remember Pete’s show very well. I was a first grader, 7 years old, when he took his life. My older brother and I used to count the days until Friday rolled around, just to watch Alias Smith and Jones. I still remember one scene where they wiped out their tracks with a tree branch. We used to do the same thing after that whenever we played “Kid Curry and Hannibal Heyes”. When I learned of Pete Duel taking his life, it hurt. I was young, but it still cut deep. Years later, I still find myself wondering just what brought him to such despair. I hope he found the peace in death that he could not find in life. I tip my hat in cowboy style, to the great Pete Duel. Rest in peace, cowboy.

  69. Daniel :

    I remember growing up in Ireland and being so young watching Alias Smith and Jones with my mum and dad. I recall the excitement and anticipation waiting for it to start. He was such a great actor and left us too soon. It shows the impact he made as people still talk about him over 40 years later. The reruns still make me smile. On hindsight, he contributed to my happy childhood of beautiful memories. Thank you. Never forgotten, always remembered. Rest in peace.

  70. Bob :

    I recently watched Alias Smith and when I heard about this memorial site, I wanted to add my own tribute to it. I think the casting of the two lead actors was a master-stroke because they were so different visually and in temperament on camera. Obviously I have no idea of their off-screen personalities and relationship but on-screen there was certainly a “chemistry” which was hard to define but easily identifiable. But for his tragic and too-early death, I feel sure Peter Duel would have been on our screens a lot more after Alias Smith & Jones had finished. I can’t.begin to understand what led up to his death and don’t want to think about how he died, but I wish I could thank him for his work which I am still enjoying 40-odd years later. Rest in peace Peter and thanks for the memories.

  71. Sara :

    Oh, how I loved Peter. I loved watching his show and looked forward to it! I remember hearing on the news late that night he had died. I was a devistated 11 year old. Home alone on New Year’s Eve, crying uncontrollably. I cannot imagine what Dianne went through, but I hope her life has been beautifully wonderful. 💞 I’m definitely going to look for the DVDs!

  72. Helen Spillane :

    A Horse’s Thoughts

    Where is my rider, with the dimpled cheeks, who knew each horse by name
    And, when we’d falter in a scene, he’d shoulder all our blame

    Where is that hand – that gentle hand – that lavished golden strokes
    I heard it said – within his head – he bore too many yokes

    What of that voice – with velvet poise – that I shall hear no more
    Or, cowboy boots, vintage suits, his knock upon the door

    I may have played his horse on set, but Pete was my best friend
    I prayed to talk like Mr. Ed, and help his heart to mend

    But, God enabled us to speak a language all our own
    My eyes, my stance, just how I’d prance – the way my ears would hone

    My heart just broke the day I learned – depression won its hand
    But, I believe that his dear soul awaits in that Fair Land

    Some day I’ll wake, and God I’ll thank, for I will feel Pete’s touch
    And, gallop on God’s mountainside – with one I love so much!

    Helen C. Spillane
    September 19th, 2016

    Please forgive the small amount of poetic license within my sonnet, but God’s creatures, such as horses, are very astute in relation to ascertaining what truly lies within a human’s heart. I do picture Pete, and all of his beloved pets happily reunited in that Promised Land that holds no single tear……. Amen.

  73. 4HHeyes :

    It has been a privilege, Carol. Thank you for keeping him alive with us. -Laura

  74. Carol :

    To Geoff and Laura, many thanks for this beautiful memorial site for Pete. Hard to believe it’s been so many years since he rode off into the sunset. Forever Hannibal Heyes, forever young, forever remembered. Much love from Carol xxx

  75. Melinda :

    Beautiful! Thank-you for sharing this Helen.

  76. Melinda :

    For an amazing man who bought joy without realising and inspired many to work for the environment. A soul aching to be free.

    THERE COMES A TIME

    There comes a time to every mortal being,
    Whate’er his station or his lot in life,
    When his sad soul yearns for the final freeing
    From all this jarring and unlovely strife.

    There comes a time when, having lost its savor,
    The salt of wealth is worthless; when the mind
    Grows weary with the world’s capricious favor,
    And sighs for some thing that it does not find.

    There comes a time when, though kind friends are thronging
    About our pathway with sweet acts of grace,
    We feel a vast overwhelming longing,
    For something that we cannot name or place.

    There comes a time when, with Earth’s best love by us
    To feed the heart’s great hunger and desire,
    We find not even this can satisfy us;
    The soul within us cries for something higher.

    What greater proof need we that men inherit
    A life immortal in another sphere ?
    It is the homesick longing of the spirit
    That cannot find its satisfaction here.

    —Ella Wheeler Wilcox

  77. chris :

    Oh to have been Peter Duel
    Cock sure and just so cool
    A handsome young man with big brown eyes
    And a smile that beamed for miles and miles
    But behind the veneer lay a troubled young sole
    Clearly unable to find his role
    Concerned for the environment and peoples entitlements
    The suppression of ones creativity
    Cancelling out all positivity
    Injustice and adversity creating absurdity
    A lack of parity fueling mans barbarity
    All was not well as he sat and dwelt
    Questioning humanity and that of his sanity
    With just the sky above he no longer loved.

  78. Grace Carroll :

    Just saw an episode of “The Virginian” with Pete Duel in it! It brought back memories for me of being a young teenage girl in love with “Hannibal Heyes / Joshua Smith” of “Alias Smith & Jones”. May God bless Pete & his family. I prayed for Pete today, will continue to do so, and will keep your family in my prayers. Sincerely, A fan, Grace M. Carroll

  79. Elaine :

    Loved watching his show wish he was still here if he could have seen how much everybody cared Prayers to the family (

  80. Helen Spillane :

    Dear Vicki, I am both humbled, and gratified by your kind response to my sonnet. I always pray for words that have the ability to nestle in one’s heart and,in this case, bring both comfort to those who read it, and honor to the one with whom we share a bond of loss and enduring affection.

    You are so correct. Peter will always be, ” loved and sorely missed”.

    Take care, and thank you again. To know that my sonnet deeply touched your heart means more than words could ever hope to convey. Helen

  81. Vicki :

    Dear Helen,
    Thank you for posting your sonnet on the Book and sharing it with Peter’s fans.
    The sonnet is beautiful, touching and obviously penned with much affection for Peter; it brought tears to my eyes.
    Peter is always loved and sorely missed.
    Vicki

  82. Helen Spillane :

    A Gentle Soul

    The glass within the picture frame protects your dimpled face
    Yet, somehow it has found a home within our beating space
    I am one of many who miss you still today
    Your unpretentious smile, your unassuming way
    I pray for you, your family – the many friends you made
    Your caring, gentle nature will truly never fade
    Heaven gained in splendor – the moment you arrived
    But, we so deeply, deeply wish – you had somehow survived
    By shining light on issues that needed desperate change
    You fostered renewed commitment that spanned a wider range
    We’ll honor your convictions – protect what you held dear
    Respect the Earth – all creatures – truths we all must hear
    There are no tears in Heaven – the Good Book tells us so
    Of your deep, eternal worth – you now, at last, do know…

    Helen C. Spillane
    May 27th, 2016

    This sonnet is dedicated to Pete Duel. Thank you for blessing us with your gentle, altruistic soul.

  83. TAMMY WYDRA :

    I remember being really anxious to watch his show every week like it was a contemporary addiction of something unnameable.

    I was a child when I thought I fell in love with him but he was a face to my eyes and a love in my heart that I’d rather leave alone. I was totally devastated when I heard he’d died.

    It didn’t matter how or why only that he was gone for ever. And I felt I’d never be the same again. I wasn’t either. His death left me numb for years , seeming so pointless to having happened at all. I lived in a fog just shuffling through days that turned to years. There seemed to be no help for me as I’m sure he felt no help coming to himself either, if indeed he saw he might need it.

    I’m a stranger to him and he, me but television joined us all to a man who should’ve lived much longer and a talent than transcended all he left behind.

    I’m 58 now and sweethearts have come and gone. Many painful things have been lived through by me but none were as mind bending and heartbreaking as his prematurely giving up on hope. I took it very personally, but I’ve never stopped remembering him and will take his memory to my grave.

  84. Susan Kempster :

    Thank you for your reply I don’t think us fans of pete will ever find anyone who can match pete in enyway is was and still is simply the best from suexx

  85. 4HHeyes :

    Thank you, Susan. I couldn’t agree more. No one compares to gorgeous Pete. He had it all. The more I’ve read now about the effects of Dilantin, I can’t help but wonder how much it played a role in his severe depression and suicide. If only we could turn back the hands of time…

  86. Susan Kempster :

    Dear Laura I just want to say how much I love the video who you,d be today sung by Kenny chesney . It feels as if it was written just for Pete it makes me cry a little but I so love the photos of him that you chose. He was such a lovely handsome young man and although there are a lot of handsome young actors out there I’ve have never seen anyone who compares to gorgeous Pete.thank you Laura from sue uk xx.

  87. chris bonnett :

    My sisters had crushes on both the guys,of course me being a boy would have non of it …but it was the title music that hooked me and from then on i would not miss an episode. Seeing it again on tv and net has bought back awesome memories and made me a little sad to think that it was so long ago but seems like yesterday. Got my 9yr old son into it now happy days

  88. Amanda :

    Pete you hold a special place in my heart that lovely smile of yours brightens up my day.missing you always.Hope you have found peace now.see you in heaven one day.

  89. Jeanne Lauber :

    Happy Birthday Peter! Geoffrey and Laura have done such a wonderful job in creating these memorial websites in your honor. Even though you are no longer physically in this world, you have many, many, many fans who still adore you and love you. I know Geoffrey must miss you and love you very much. You must be really pleased that Geoffrey has done so much to keep your memory alive and to honor you.

  90. Sally :

    Happy Belated Birthday Pete !!……I’m still researching the Deuel family tree….. One person who really inspired me to do a deuel family tree is my Aunt Anita (1912-2006) as she is a direct descendant of this George of the Mayflower on 1620 but the deuel families had used a different spelling of the last name….but anyway Happy Birthday I love and miss you

  91. M curry :

    RIP, Happy Birthday in Heaven!😘😊

  92. Avril :

    Thanks for all the joy you gave – and still give – us, Pete. You were a charismatic, talented and beautiful one-off. Love always. Avril xx

  93. Robbin :

    It’s hard to believe that you would be 76 today, Peter. Loved you in Alias Smith and Jones; I know it wasn’t your acting preference, but you were great in everything you were in. Loved you most of all in “The Scarecrow,” where you really showed your acting talent. Wish you were still with us. Rest in peace.

  94. DebsUK :

    Dear Pete. A very special person.
    Thinking of you on your birthday.
    ‘Peace and Ecology’.
    Sending lots of love.
    xxxxxx

  95. Hayley :

    I don’t normally post things on sites but just felt the need to wish Pete a Happy 76th Birthday. Started watching AS&J on British TV when I was about 7 and immediately had a mad crush on ‘Hannibal Heyes’. Still feel like that today, over 40 years later. Sat typing with a picture of Pete, as Heyes, on the wall next to me. AS&J has definitely stood the test of time, unlike most 1970s stuff. I could never, ever get tired of watching the truly beautiful guy. Travelling to the US, from England, later this year and will be visiting his grave and home town. I know he’s not there but just feel the need to, as I’m sure you understand. I remember hearing about his death on the news. Still so sad. Happy Birthday and thanks for Alias Smith & Jones.

  96. Marianne :

    Happy Birthday beautiful man
    You are a ray of sunshine in my life
    Peace and love to you dear Pete x

  97. Sue :

    Happy birthday dear Pete hope you have a great party in heaven love and miss you always.sue UK.

  98. linda :

    Happy birthday to the most gorgeous and talented actor that the world has even seen.,your talent was and still is second to none. Peter your beliefs just show how before your time you were . Peter it is amazing how still now how people miss and love you this is because you are very special man a man whose spirit is with us every day,never forgotten always loved. Happy birthday Petey ,be happy, peace,and ecology now lin x xx

  99. Melissa Smith :

    Happy birthday to our beloved Pete and to all the Duelies who still deeply love him. I hope he knows about our love and respect for his life and work.

  100. L.B. :

    I believe he would have become (and wanted to become) an Academy Award winning actor because he had a giant but nuanced style of acting that grabs you and holds you. Even in that little series, you could see his talent and what he was capable of. I am sorry the studio didn’t see it sooner and hand him a feature script which is what he wanted.

    In another life, Pete. You will be one of the greatest actors of your time. RIP a week before your birthday.

    A new (old) fan,
    L.B.

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