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 :

    After all these years it’s still as heartbreaking as it was when I was told that Pete had tragically died in the early hours of December 31st 1971 I was only thirteen but was numb with the pain I felt for this truly talented and wonderfully handsome young man. Still love and miss you Petexxx.Wishing Geoffrey Jacqueline and Laura piece and good health and a happy new yearxxx.

  2. Joaquin Santos :

    Dear Pete: Another year has come to past. Yet, my memories are still clear. Your sudden passing on Dec 31st 1971, still brings pain and unanswered why’s. My Prayers are with you always. God Bless. Jack. P. S. Ecology Now.

  3. Maire :

    Pete, his family and friends in my thoughts and prayers today.
    Thank you, Laura, for this website and all your work.

  4. Karen Michelle Plummer :

    Holidays aren’t Easy For alot Of Us So I Wanted to Say I have Pete’s Family in Loving thoughts and Pete’s Fans I hope have a Nice holiday with their Family happy Birthday Jesus My Best to You Laura have a Good One also

  5. Noemi :

    Thank you Karen and a belated Happy Thanksgiving to all thanks again

  6. Karen Michelle Plummer :

    I Want to Wish Pete’s Family and Fans a Wonderful Thanksgiving

  7. JP :

    I had a huge crush on Pete Duel after seeing him on ASJ. I also tracked Geoffrey’s guest appearances on prime time by studying the TV Guide! The pool of TV actors was so much smaller back in the 1970’s, as were the acting venues. I wish Pete had lived long enough to get more refined treatment for his epilepsy.

  8. Ro :

    I loved ASJ as a young kid. My mom and I would watch it every week. Then one week, there was a new lead and I was like, wait, what happened to Joshua/Heyes? My mom only told me that the actor had died. I didn’t learn that he had taken his life until a few years later. The show was a great interpretation of Butch and Sundance. I really missed it. I hope Pete found his peace.

  9. Noemi :

    I am amazed that most of these comments are recent (2019). I was 12 years old when Pete died and I never watched ASJ until just a few years ago and now on INSP. I just recently learned about his death so I have been reading so much about him. It is so wonderful that after 48 years he is still being remembered with so much love … and so I now too join you all in keeping his memory alive. I have thought of him almost every day and read of his struggles 😕

    I listened to a webcast the other day regarding mental health and would like to share a few points with you all: Alcohol is considered a chronic brain disorder and a primary disease and coupled by depression is a big burden to live with. Depression is certainly one of the most common mental health diagnoses and a lot of times it’s characterized by sadness, empty moods lasting over two weeks. A person may feel worthless, guilty, lose hope; they don’t see hope for the future; they’ve lost pleasure BUT nothing scares us more than the issue of suicide and it’s probably as frightening as it can get because no one can predict it but we all know that there are factors that might serve as warning signs.

    This beautiful beautiful man left us a beautiful gift that even today the younger generations that were not even alive when he died are becoming his fans. Perhaps our big goal today is to build that awareness; really build our understanding and get us more prepared to offer needed assistance when we recognize someone is struggling with this horrible disease. Just like his character, Hannibal Heyes, trying to go straight but with a price for his freedom. Pete, too, had his own struggles, but he paid dearly for his freedom.

    Thank you, Laura, for this wonderful site and my caring thoughts to Geoffrey, Jacqueline, and Pamela (I wish I could meet you in person to give you all a big hug). Be well!!

    RIP beautiful beautiful Pete!!

  10. Rox Orange :

    This is such a wonderful tribute site thank you so much Laura for keeping Pete’s light shining for all the world to see. I loved Pete in all the roles I saw him in. I adored him as the animal-loving lovable rogue in Alias Smith and Jones and remember when he passed away that sad December of 1971. I was 10 years old and it had a big impact on me. It was so long ago now, but he was a man ahead of his time in so many ways, particularly environmentally. I treasure my memories, and because of Pete I have tried to keep the love of the natural world paramount in my life. God bless to his loved ones and to all the Pete Duel fans out there. And God bless you Pete, rest easy xxx

  11. Michelle Plummer :

    Want to Thank You Laura and Geoffrey For Sharing Remember Pete Duel With the Special Note above From Geoff From March 18 2014 it’s From the Documentary I Got tears in My Eyes Because I Could Never afford to Buy it Thank You So Much Pete was and is a Very Special Person as is Geoff and his Family I Lost My Dad in August we Watched AS&J together My Mom who Passed away in 2017 Loved to Watch Pete and Geoffrey also Lately Going through My Grief of My Dad and Mom I’ve Been Watching Pete in Gidget Love on a Rooftop (which is a Gem I Love the Show I Watch on YouTube and DVDR) and of Course AS&J I Need to Laugh Laura and Geoff and Pete is Making Me Feel Better he was hilarious in Gidget and Love on a Rooftop they Say if you can do Comedy You Can Do Anything Pete Certainly Could I Love Watching Pete in Everything Drama etc It really helps Me Right Now I’m Not having the Best time Right Now But Pete Brightens My Days and Nights I have 95% of his Work on DVD and what I Don’t have I watch here or on YouTube Geoff I Know You and Your Family Know What a Wonderful Man You have in Pete Memories Etc and I always Get the impression it Runs in Your Family Geoff You were Great in Chisium and the Rebellious Youth Rolls I’ve Seen about Everything You’ve Done also I Just Want to Thank You Again For Being Genorious in Sharing Your Memories I Started Watching AS&J in January on INSP With My Dad who Liked it a Long Time I’ve Come Late to Pete But I’m Proud to be here I’d Known about Both You and Pete Before But I Really Got into Pete in January and I’ve Gone Back and Watched all of Pete’s Work Yours Too I Lost My Brother Rick at 24 in 1991 we’re only a Year apart in age We were Very Close he Died From a Cereberall hemerage it was a Shock he was Fine one minute and the Next Tragedy Geoff Thank You I Love the Portion of the Remembering Pete Documentary You Shared here Thank You and Laura and Thank You Pete For Making Me Feel Better God Bless You

  12. Noemi :

    Hi Linda: I live about 4 hours away from Penfield (❤️❤️❤️ NY) and I too plan to visit his grave site soon and also make it an annual thing perhaps I’ll meet you and your husband there one day. Do you always go on July 26th?

  13. 4HHeyes :

    Happy Labor Day Weekend back to you from all of us, Michelle!

  14. Michelle Plummer :

    Happy Labor Day Weekend Laura and Pete’s Family and Fans

  15. Rose Ferrara-Love :

    I loved AS&J, while I shared the same birthday as Ben Murphy, Pete was the heartthrob. I still have the 45rpm of his poetry. the other side had him singing “Simple Gifts”

  16. Michelle Plummer :

    Thanks For Sharing this

  17. Linda :

    My husband and I visited Pete’s grave last Friday, July 26, 2019. It was such a peaceful place. We cleared away some weeds on the edges of his name, and I left some Sunflowers. I love you Pete, always will. I was 15 when AS&J first aired, and 63 when it started airing again on INSP. I still felt like that 15 year old, crazy about you all over again. We plan to make it an annual trip. Can’t wait till next summer to visit again. Till then…

  18. Kathy :

    Still watching your show Alias Smith and Jones. Had a huge crush on you in 1971. Such a great actor.

  19. Jackie Steer :

    Pete, you were my 1st heartthrob. You took your own life on my 8th birthday& even at such a young age, I understood how sadness felt in that you had been so unhappy death seemed like your only release. Your smile has never been beaten and I doubt that it ever will be. Rest peacefully, beautiful Pete. God bless.

  20. Glenn :

    I still watch the series it brings great joy to me seeing actors with such chemistry in a series that was about good stories.
    But listening to pete duels one liners are priceless such a pity no one was their to help him when he most needed it.
    Its strange when you watch pete duel acting as it brings mixed emotions of happiness and sadness I will always indebted to him for great memories.thank you so much.

  21. Michelle Plummer :

    I Received the Picturing Pete Duel Book it’s a Beautiful Book Laura You Did A Wonderful Job on it I’m Sure Pete’s Family Appreciated it as well I May Buy the Book In Pete’s Own Words Book Sometime

  22. Michelle Plummer :

    To all the Pete Duel Fans have a Nice 4th of July Weekend

  23. Michelle Plummer :

    I Want to Thank Laura Geoffrey and Jacqueline Duel for the Great Work Putting Together the Pete Duel Picture Collection Book With Three hundred pictures I Just received Mine today I Love it of Course I’m gonna order the Other one in the Near Future it’s REALLY AWESOME THANK YOU

  24. Michelle Plummer :

    I’m Now Reading the 2nd Edition of Pete Duel the Biography by Paul Green I Read in there Pete Said in a interview with the Los Angeles Times December 1971 8)8 I’ve Enjoyed this Odd Show We got Good People It’s Not the Show it’s the System You Finish One Show and Start the Next one the Next Morning Pete Commenting on doing Alias Smith and Jones Yes it was the Schedule

  25. Kathleen Pfeiffer :

    I remember having my first crush on him when he appeared in Love on a Rooftop in the 1960’s. I was 17 when he died and remember being so gutted. Such a nice man and talented actor. I’m sorry he was in such pain that he couldn’t continue in this world but glad to see he is still remembered and loved beyond his immediate family. RIP Pete and thank you for the memories. Glad there are reruns and vidoes. You still shine.

  26. Michelle Plummer :

    I Wanted to Wish Everyone a Nice Memorial Day Weekend for Remembering our Loved ones we’ve lost And to Laura who always does a great job on this Site for Remembering Pete I Love all the Nice Comments Thank You

  27. Debra Aellig :

    I just began watching reruns of Alias Smith and Jones! I was 11 years old when Pete Duel died and I grieve for him and his dear family to this day. I’m 59 years old and still have my scrapbook of the photos from Alias Smith and Jones. What a sad time for his brother and sister and family. Pete Duel was magnetic, handsome, funny, and seemed a very genuine person. I will miss him always and will continue to miss what could have been. Hugs from an older teen fan, Debbie

  28. Mary :

    When I was 13 you left this world. I loved you as a child and I love you now as a grown woman. I cannot help but wonder if you could have gotten the help you so desperately needed, would you have made it. Would you still be alive sharing the extraordinary talents you possessed with the world. Would you have had a family. You are missed.

  29. Michelle Plummer :

    I have a theory on the reason Pete had a problem doing Alias Smith and Jones I could be wrong but I don’t think it was the show it self because he had done other series but when you do a half hour Show it’s different a half hour Show is 9 to 5schedule with a week off with a hour Show twelve to fifteen hour days I’ve read in the material here Pete resented school taking his freedom it could’ve been any hour long show and it would be the same result no time for other roles like there is with a half hour Show just a theory but something to think about

  30. Mary Ware :

    Poor man. So much potential. He had great ability, Great opportunities. Problems in his life just began to snowball. He had the strength of psychology to work all of it out. His health…just too much against him. God Bless someone who gave everything he had to be a winner. That is why he was so loved by fans.

  31. Michelle Plummer :

    I Love What you said here and I agree Pete Duel Shined in this World

  32. Ruby Boone :

    I am 81 and I started watching the Virginian last year. Last night I saw this beautiful young man that God created. Most beautiful eyes and a smile that lit up the world. He could say things with his eyes and smile more than most actors do with their physical actions. I didn’t watch much television back then because I was busy with two kids and working so I never heard of him. I am two years Older than he was. I do not understand why movie producers didn’t pick him up for major movies. Anyway, thank you for this site, now I can see him anytime I want. Ruby

  33. Michelle Plummer :

    I want to thank Geoffrey for sharing memories of his father in the Remembrance section it’s never easy to lose Loved Ones I lost my Mom in December 2017, and My Brother Rick in 1991 at 24 I was close to both I appreciate the Deuel Family for sharing of Photographs, Videos and everything that you do on this page with Laura Moretti after reading Paul Green’s book about Pete I Missed him he was a good person always Gracious with his Fans sign Autographs I recently just started watching Alias Smith and Jones and I got Pete’s Biography I want to watch more of Pete’s work in fact in Geoff’s remembrance of his Dad it was mentioned that Pamela lives in Valley Forge Pa well I live in Phoenixville about Ten minutes from there it’s just a small world When you read about Pete and his Family it’s like you’ve always known them because they’re so Down to Earth Right Now I take care of my Dad he’s 86 years old he has Early Dementia it progressed after he lost my Mom they were married 61 years Thank You Geoff and Your Family

  34. Bonnie :

    I use to watch Alias Smith and Jones when I was a 13 year old girl. Loved the show very much and Pete had me hooked on day one of watching the show!!!! Those beautiful brown eyes, dimpled smile and his little turned up nose could make any girl swoon and that was me every time I watched the show. Have just now been able to watch the show again on the western channel and now at 60 yrs old he still makes me swoon. So sorry his life was cut short but his memories and movies will always stand the test of time. Thanks for the memories and love you always.

  35. Michelle Plummer :

    I have question Any fan can answer but especially his brother Geoffrey and his sister Pamela What do you think Pete would say or feel about people still remembering him after all this time I Think he’d be very Surprised and appreciate that people still cared and we’re still watching him and his work

  36. Michelle Plummer :

    I just read the Paul Green Book about Pete it was a Sad end to such a good human being with such a great Talent not many are remembered some forty years later only the Special ones and Pete was and is Special

  37. Rose :

    I remember watching Alias Smith and Jones. I always looked forward to it. Even at a young age I imagined myself living in that era. You made time come alive. Dreams come true. I was heartbroken when I found out what happened. You will always be remembered with love !

  38. Rod Pastor :

    I loved Peter Deuel on Alias Smith and Jones also. He was funny and very entertaining. I was 19 when he died and I was really sad. I had a severe head injury during the Vietnam war when I was in the Air Force and I have felt like ending my life, but I didn’t. Watching the reruns of Alias Smith and Jones has been really nice.

  39. Rachel West :

    I loved you on Alias Smith and Jones when I was a child. I had a very difficult childhood and in my child brain you used to talk to me and keep me calm and feeling safe. I was 6 or 7yrs when you died and to me you were Hannibal Hayes, you brought him to life for me. When I grew up I learnt how you were dealing with your own problems and I was sad to hear you were not happy but inspired by your drive to try to remain healthy. Thank you for making a character who contained all the characteristics that were lacking in the adults around me.

  40. Michelle M :

    You will always be great to me …

  41. EDWARD P SMITH :

    RIP PETE- WAS WATCHING AN EPISODE OF ALIAS SMITH AND JONES AN REMEMBERED HOW I WAS SO SAD WHEN I HEARD OF PETE’S DEATH WAY BACK THEN – I WAS YOUNG BUT PETE WAS ONE OF MY FAVORITE ACTORS AND IT STILL STINGS A BIT ALL THESE YEARS LATER – SO I GUESS ‘ GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN’ IS HIS LEGACY

  42. Joyce J :

    I recently lost my husband of 55+ years to cancer and we enjoyed watching reruns of Alias Smith and Jones together. Was sad to learn Pete Duel was no longer with us. May he rest in peace – his acting is some of the best I’ve seen for those early days. Thank you Pete and Ben for putting a smile on my face with some of your humor from the series. Love you guys!

  43. Maureen Flannigan :

    To the family of Dr. Deuel: I worked at Kodak’s Elmgrove Plant in Rochester, NY. Your dad was my doctor. I had severe asthma and he took such good care of me. The asthma was so severe, I had to carry my own injections. I remember when Peter passed away and my heart broke for him and his family. I often thought of both of them throughout the years. I went on the internet and found this wonderful writeup on Dr. Deuel. You were one of the best Dr. Deuel!.

  44. Sherry Smith :

    I HAVE BEEN WATCHING ALIAS SMITH AND JONES FOR AWHILE NOW AND I LOVE HIS HAT PETE DUEL GOOD LOOKING HANDSOME MAN PETE IS A AWESOME BEAUTIFUL HUMAN BEING GOD BLESS AMEN❤❤❤! !!! R I P IN HEAVEN AMEN❤❤❤! !!!

  45. Eddie & Ana Riddle :

    Pete,
    Didn’t know you but I knew you. I suffered from some of the same demons as you at about some of the same time. I left the military after ‘Nam in ’69 and dove right in. I’ve been reintroduced to Smith and Jones on “Saddle up Weekends” and man I miss you, like Hendrix and Janis. But dude, You live on.
    Adios Bro,
    Eddie

  46. Agneta :

    Here comes a delayed birthdaygeetings on Your 79th birthday!!!!!
    Still miss you after all these years you`ve been gone.
    You were the best, you had it all!!! Love you always!!
    Agneta- Sweden

  47. michelle keller :

    darling pete happy birthday in heaven always miss tou always in my heart love mchelle keller in las vegas .

  48. Johanna Roy :

    You might be gone but your greatness will never be forgotten Happy 79th Birthday

  49. Kathe C :

    Miss You Pete. Happy Birthday. Always loved and remembered.by your family,friends and fans.

  50. Reonita Heller :

    van harte gefeliciteerd lieve Pete, uit het oog maar niet uit het hart

  51. Avril :

    Always in our hearts, Pete. XX

  52. Karen :

    Happy Birthday Pete…. I was 11 years old when you left this world. I always wonder if you where still here what you would of accomplished in this world, with those good looks and charisma you had on the screen. i believe you would done alot in the ecology make our environment a much better place to live. You are truly missed and loved by so many people. peace and love Pete

  53. Susan Kempster :

    Happy Birthday dear pete love you alwaysXx.

  54. Barbara Leshowitz :

    As we approach another February 24th, I wanted to again lend my thoughts and heart to this wonderful memorial website. Not a day goes by when I do not have at least one thought about Peter. It’s not difficult to remember him for the special person he was. I have as many photographs of him in my home as I do of my own loved ones. And so many issues remind me of him and what he felt was important. Occasionally it pains me to come across a project or film made by another that he would have been more perfectly cast in. Or by now he might have moved into politics so he could have made his intelligent voice heard even louder. Although many current events would have greatly disturbed him, I think he would have been pleased with strides that have in small ways made the world a bit better. It certainly was better because he was once here with his conscience and talent. Happy Birthday in Heaven Peter. And thank you Laura for all you do.

  55. Daryl Locklear :

    Mr. Duel had a role in the (1968 produced, aired in…) 1972 movie, ‘How to Steal an Airplane’ also known as ‘One Day Left Before tomorrow’.
    I am as enchanted now with this movie as when I first saw it in 1972. Pete plays an outsider, a can-do type of guy, hired to reposses a jet and meets romance along the way. The locale, the romance, airplanes, a good friend… these chords all resonate with me. I did not know then that my career path would develop into becoming an aircraft mechanic, then writing maintenance manuals for aircraft mechanics at Bombardier, Boeing, Honeywell and Pratt and Whitney Canada, as well as working for a special security unit airside at Vancouver International Airport. I felt a kinship with Mr. Duel as a person, too. I watch the movie from time to time with a touch of sadness. Part of my life stopped with his tragic death. I respond with the sentiment offered by many others, ‘Rest easy, Mr. Duel.’ And thank you.

  56. Tina :

    I continue to watch the re-runs of Alias Smith and Jones, even though I’ve seen each episodes dozens of times. I love theses kind of westerns and am a HUGE fan of Mr. Duel and Mr. Murphy. I’ve read Mr. Duel’s story many times and am surprised and sorry that he disliked making Alias Smith and Jones. It brought so much joy to so many people, I wish that he could have felt that love and moved on. The fact that he could make that series while in pain (both emotionally and physically) and NOT show it onscreen was a true credit to his acting. He was such a talented and handsome man! I too suffer from depression so I can relate to those feelings of loneliness and despair. These days, depression is much more talked about and accepted in the public than it was back then. There’s also a lot more treatment options and help available now. It’s heartbreaking that he felt taking his own life was his only way out. The world (and his family) have lost out on watching this man continue to grow, his beautiful smile, and his immense talent. Thankfully, sites like this, and television re-runs, give us the opportunity to still see his work and be reminded of his gift. I hope you finally found the peace you so wanted Mr. Duel. Thank you kindly, from the bottom of my heart, for so many hours of entertainment!

  57. William Cornell, MD :

    They revived the show ‘Alias Smith and Jones’ and I was curious about what happened to the actors. I had a vague recollection of the show from my time in college and seem to recall a story about Pete Duel being killed by an accidental discharge of a stage prop gun. I was surprised to see it ruled a suicide, but tragically it makes sense. Clearly this very talented actor suffered from depression and was, at least in part, self-medicating with alcohol. Such a loss seems to me this guy had had so many things going for him, but his demons took charge in a moment of weakness and a tremendous talent is lost forever. I hope he found happiness.

  58. Andrea :

    I turned 15 six months before Pete Duel took his life. I had been a huge fan since Gidget. I watched Alias Smith and Jones faithfully and I was devastated when I heard. I was a young girl who thought he was dreamy and a fine actor. The night I heard I went to my bedroom and wrote a poem called Benjamin Hale. It was about a man who killed himself. Inspired by Pete Duel, naturally. It was my homage to him. He was someone I imagined to be a lovely and kind man. I am also watching Alias Smith and Jones on INSP. Thank you, Laura.

  59. Bonnie :

    I loved watching Alias Smith and Jones and had a crush on Pete Duel, I was about 9 years old. I was heart broken when it he passed away.Such a waste of an incredible actor and one that so pleasing to the eyes. Even though time goes on, he is still missed. Rest In Peace and my prayers for his loved ones.

  60. Carole (Hope) :

    Reruns of Alias Smith and Jones have just started on the Inspiration Channel. It’s so good to see Pete’s charming, dimpled, mischievous smile again. I also remember seeing Pete on a doctor’s show years ago (can’t remember the name) where he was dying of kidney failure or something. He was soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo good on that show!

    How sad that he left this earth the way he did. I still miss him.

    God bless his family and friends.

  61. Kathe C :

    Miss you Pete.

    Lovely slideshow Laura. Very poignant, Thanks to the Deuel Family for their gracious input and to you for putting it together.

  62. Vicki :

    Thank you, Laura, for the slideshow of family pictures. Thank you to Geoff, Jacqueline, Pamela and the Deuel family for the priceless family photos. Another year has gone by and during this difficult time we pause to remember the Deuel family and the loss of their beloved Peter.
    We weren’t family but we loved him, too, in our own way he belonged to us as well. Peter will forever remain our shining star…he is missed and forever loved.

  63. jez :

    love you pete so sad you were a fantastic actor

  64. Sue :

    Another year gone by and still I ask myself why this wonderfull man had to die. He had so much he could have done and I feel he would have been so successful with his career. He cared to much and it hurt him to see how our planet was being torn apart by war and pollution. I will never forget him until my dying day and I just hope I will meet him in the next life love you always Pete and also thankfyou to Geoffrey Jacklyn and Laura for all you do for us very greatfull fans.wishing you health happiness and piece in the new yearXx.

  65. Kenny :

    I haven’t seen Alias Smith & Jones since I was kid. Now I’m so glad it’s on Cozi TV. I watch it every Sunday morning. Also liked Pete in Gidget.

  66. Liz R, Leeds, UK :

    Always remembered with love. Thoughts with Geoffrey, Jacqueline and Pamela. Always my shining star Peter.

  67. Marianne Carter :

    Thoughts, prayers and love to Geoffrey, Pamela and their families on this saddest of days another year on. I wish you, Geoffrey the best of health for the coming New Year x

  68. Joaquin Santos :

    Dear Pete. As I take this moment to remember you, it’s always mixed with a joy and a sadness or two. Your gifts were many,yet,the smiles so few..,your life was troubled, you felt the world cruel. No one will ever know what made you do what you had done, You must have felt lost and alone, despair and withdrawn. yet, the lives that you have touched continue to go on, with a love so true, that’s were you belong. For in the end you were a special man, who now is sitting on the right of god’s hand. As I say a prayer for you this day..,others continue to miss you in their own way. May god bless you Pete.. Peace and Ecology Now. Signed, A friend…Jack.

  69. Mary :

    It’s that time of year again. My thoughts and prayers are with Geoff, Pam and their families, and all of us who are left behind. God bless you, Pete. Thanks for sharing your gifts, for making us laugh and teaching us so much.

  70. April Jo :

    I knew Bob an Lillian from church in Canoga Park, CA. We became very close, so close that they used to say my sons were their grandsons, my sons called them Grandpa Bob and Grandma Lillian. When they each got the chicken pox Bob was right there, twice a day, to check on them. When my oldest son Jeff cut his foot requiring stitches Bob came over and checked to make sure it was done right. My dad was also a doctor and my mother was a nurse and Pam and I used to talk about the perils of being a doctor’s kid…you weren’t ever sick or you’d get a shot. One time they brought Geoff out to our house in Simi Valley and he scared the living daylights out of me. He has an amazing sense of humor. I miss Bob and Lillian terribly and loved them dearly, as I do Geoff and Pam.

  71. Ken Mills :

    The first time I ever saw Peter Deuel was when I was in high school 33 years ago (headed towards graduation, and onto college), and at home watching reruns of “Gidget”-at this point, I didn’t know that Sally Field did a television show prior to “The Flying Nun”; many months later within the last 33 years in television rerun heaven I would come across “Love on a rooftop” (especially the first episode), and “Alias Smith and Jones” (a movie version before Peter’s passing…I thought his last name was spelled ‘DEVEL’ when the credits from “Gidget” closes out); physically he has a beautiful build (no disrespect, but I don’t like facial hair on ANY man including myself) and smiles reminds me of a friend-turned-musician at the time during my [first year in] college; altogether I always thought that we as pisceans should stick together (Peter was February, I am currently March) because we’re so artistic in many ways and occasionally overlooked despite investments to reach our full[?] maximum possibilities in careers, endeavors, goals, and plans with God’s help because ALL things are possible; Peter Deuel ‘looks’ just like his name (and so does Lisle Wilson, Jeremy Piven, Carl White, Gerard Christopher [now Dinome] and so many others I can think of NOT to stray from the subject); had he lived, I would’ve loved to have dated him without pushing envelopes. 😇🤗☺️

  72. Elizabeth :

    Fue y será siempre mi amor platónico. Un gran actor y un gran ser humano. Su mirada demuestra la nobleza de su corazón. Pete te llevo en mi corazón eternamente. Bendiciones y besos a su hermano y hermana.
    Qué fue de la vida de Dianne Ray?
    Estoy interesada en adquirir el libro. Qué tengo que hacer para adquirirlo?

  73. Brendan Kelly :

    He might not have thought a lot of the script, but he would have been perfect as Han Solo, the single best pick for the role.

    Oh, you had so much ahead of you…

  74. frank :

    Too soon, too young mate. Love and much respect

  75. Ronda :

    i was 10 when he passed and still remember it well, He was my first screen crush and it was traumatic when that happened. anyhow, its cool to see this many people who remember him, I could’nt wait for Alias smith & jones to come on every week! RIP Mr Duel

  76. Sherry Thoma :

    I visited Pete’s grave site in May. I took white roses to lay on it. There were leaves and debris surrounding it so I cleaned it up and straightened up the tipped over trinkets and memoriams that other people who also loved him had left and took some pictures. I stayed a couple hours just to sit there and be near him. I also went to see his high school and the church where they held his services.

    Love always to you Pete. I hope you’ve found peace. You are very missed.

    Love, Sherry

  77. John J :

    I was in my childhood when Alias Smith and Jones first aired on tv. Pete Duel had such a strong stage presence I never forgot the role he played. It is heartwarming to learn he was a animal lover and loved by so many. Thank you for the good memories you left me Pete.

  78. Ioannis Greece :

    I was about 11 y.o. at 1975 when i watched in Greek tv (and never missed a single one episode as i remember) “Alias Smith and Jones” western series.Of course i remember Pete Duel (R.I.P) with his blonde one partner. Remember those times we playing cowboys and acting just like them (without horses of course). In YouTube at now refreshing my memories about the series.Pete’s sad death 47 years ago looks like just a joke. I always remember. thank you and sorry for bad English..

  79. Mary Jo Strouse :

    Wow, this takes me back! I grew up in an old house at 1806 Penfield Rd (now i think its a Starbucks) and remember playing with his Niece, Jennifer? I remember playing in the woods out back and there was a cabin that we hung around. I was pretty young at the time (1967-1971) 6 years to 11 years old but i remember how sad we all were when we heard. He was our hometown celebrity and I adored him. The years may have passed but his memory lives on.

  80. Deborah Dodge :

    I will always love Pete Duel he will always be in my heart miss him dearly. My heart is with his family.

  81. Joan w :

    Just thinking about all the joy and fun he brought into my life when i watched the show and had a secret childhood crush on him:) so sad. i wish him peace always, and remember him to this day.

  82. Deborah :

    Dear Pete, you truly were a”gift”.
    Loved and missed beyond words, I simply can’t find the vocabulary today, just a jumble of emotions, sadness, questions and love… may God cradle you in his arms as we remember you on this your birthday❤️

  83. Kathe C :

    Remembering you on your birthday and always.Love your smile.Love you Pete.

    .”Such a long, long time to be gone and a short time to be there.”

  84. Patricia Hernandez Ortuño :

    -Querido Peter gracias por darnos tu sonrisa, tu energía, tu brillo, tu amor por la naturaleza y los animales!!!
    gracias por embellecer este mundo con tu ser.
    Tu influencia sigue causando cosas bellas en el y gracias a tu inspiración ya no uso mas vasos de plástico. Gracias a la vida porque has existido y porque en el corazón humano no existe el tiempo. Feliz Cumpleaños Pete!! Siempre estarás en mi corazón. Te amo

  85. Avril :

    Birthdays deserve celebration, so today I shall remember your’s with joy, Pete – for your awesome talent, your glorious smile and your energy and passion for the environment and your beloved animals. Love always. Avril x

  86. Margaret :

    Remembering you today on your birthday, Pete, and thinking of your family and friends. It is almost 1.30am and I can’t sleep so I’ll put on a favourite AS&J and enjoy every minute of it. God bless.

  87. Vicki :

    Dear Peter,
    Another year has gone by and another birthday you are spending in heaven. You are loved and missed more than you know.
    You have always been our special one for many reasons and you will always remain–my hero. Rest easy.

  88. Debbie :

    I still miss seeing you on the TV or movie screen after all these years. I was a mere 17 yrs old when you died, but remember it like it was yesterday. That New Year’s Eve, my parents were having a party & my best friend was going to be there. I was helping clean the house when she called me & told me the news. It was a shock, to say the least. Of course, being teenagers and neither of us having boyfriends, we both had a huge crush on you. I remember your love for nature, animals and our planet. I wonder what you would think about all the non-ecological things going on in today’s world. You probably wouldn’t be too happy about it! I’ve been reading the other tributes to you and have discovered that my eyes are suddenly watering. Oh, by the way, you had a killer smile! Every once in a while, I have to watch “The Posse That Wouldn’t Quit”, just so I can hear you sing “Simple Gifts.” I am rambling now, so I will end by saying I still love you. My prayers go out to Geoffrey and Pamela, I can’t imagine losing a sibling and am certain you never get over it.

  89. Patricia Hernandez Ortuño :

    Eres un rayo de luz que me sigue iluminando hoy dia. Te amo y siempre estarás en mi corazón. Gracias Pete por brillar en mi infancia y por acompañarme aún. Eres un regalo del Cielo.

  90. gary modoff :

    i was just a kid 8 years old and loved the show but it always tripped me out that he died and just now decided to look it up if i remembered correctly, unfortunately i did,he was a great guy

  91. Kat Utz :

    The words enchanting come to mind as I look at the photos of Pete. I was just 15 when he chose to leave, and it broke my heart. He had so much talent, and was one of the first celebrities who spoke out about the planet and ecology. I often think of the roles he could have played had he lived and the acting awards that were there within his reach. He was truly gifted in his profession and enlightened in so many ways. I also wonder what the world would have been like if he had entered politics and the positive things he could have accomplished. I think it would come as quite a surprise to him that here we are almost 50 years later, still remembering him, still reminiscing about those days, still regretting what could have been. I think he would just have that twinkle in his eyes and smile that beautiful smile to know we haven’t forgotten him. God bless you sweet prince. Sleep in peace and in the arms of the angels.

  92. Dalila :

    46 years i look at his picture before going to bed. This a will do for as long as i live. Peter Deuel, you have not know me, but you are forever in my heart.

  93. Susan Brummett :

    46 years? It does not seem possible. I still have the articles about his passing. No wonder they are looking old. It’s nice to have somewhere to go to and look at the memories of a life cut so tragically short. Pete Duel, I hope that you were able to find the happiness you deserve.

  94. Valerie Weber :

    What is it about this man that we just can’t let go? Perhaps we wish we could have been there to save his sad, lost soul.

  95. Donna :

    Such a handsome, intelligent, and talented man. I cant believe he has been gone 46 years. I miss him so much! His smile always brightened my day and still does when I think of him. RIP Pete.

  96. Eileen Burgos :

    Hard to believe it is now 46 years. Where ever you are Pete, I hope you found your peace and happiness. You deserve that. Such a sad day for all your fans. You are in our hearts forever.

  97. Liz - Leeds UK :

    Peter, thinking of you more than ever, at this sad time of year. Thoughts also of your family, of Pamela, Geoffrey and Jacqueline, for whom this time of year will be especially difficult. Will never, could never forget you. Shine like the star you will always be.

  98. Laura :

    Pete’s memory continues to live in our hearts. Thank all those who keep this site going.

  99. Avril, Scotland :

    A lifetime ago many young, hopeful and eager hearts were surrendered to you. You were our prince – handsome, clever, funny and perfect – and a lot of those young hearts felt the searing and confusing pain of loss for the first time, after you went. Forty six years on and, whilst my own loved ones and dear departed family now lay claim to the biggest share of my heart, there is a special place there too that is forever yours. You touch me still, Pete. Love always. x

  100. Marianne Carter :

    A beautiful and intelligent man, born ahead of his time, with the insight to see what was happening to the world back then. Not only caring for animals and people, he was passionately concerned about the environment and the future of the planet. It is uplifting to hear his message on ecology, made just a few weeks before he sadly died, hoping that whoever hears it realises the importance that we must all do our part in looking after our planet for future generations. I wonder what he would think about what is happening now.

    He wanted everyone to “be happy”, if only he could have realised his personal achievements and been happy himself.

    Thank you for your inspiration Pete, I miss you but your memory will live on. Thank you Geoffrey for doing so much for your dear brother x

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