Donald P. “Pete” German, 87, of Smithton, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, in Penn Highlands Mon Valley Hospital, ,surrounded by his family. He was born September 14, 1938, in Wyano, son of the late Frank and Margaret (Maughan) German. In addition to his parents, he is proceeded in death by his brother, Frank (Patti) German and sister, Dolores (Jake) Baker, brother-in-law, Pat Walker.
Pete was a graduate of South Huntington High School, class of 1957. He then continued his education at California University, receiving a bachelor’s degree in education. Prior to his retirement he dedicated himself to teaching for 30 years as the industrial arts teacher in the West Newton High School and Yough High School. He taught generations of students woodworking skills, but more importantly he taught them about hard work and responsibility. Even years after leaving his classroom, former students continue to share stories of how much “Mr. German” influenced their lives. That was the kind of teacher he was, one whose lessons stayed with his students long after they left his classroom.
His faith was an important part of his life. He was a member of Seven Dolors Church in Yukon and former member of St. Timothy’s Roman Catholic Church in Smithton.
His greatest joy was his grandchildren, and great - grandchildren. He was their beloved Pap, Pappy, and PapPap. He never missed one of their events, dance recitals, football, volleyball, softball, wrestling, and he just loved sitting in the stands cheering and videoing. They were his life and brought him so much happiness. He cherished every moment with every visit and loved making the kids their Pappy’s pancakes, with his famous recipe.
He enjoyed spending time outdoors, hunting, fishing, gardening, and decorating for every holiday, which he was so proud.
He also enjoyed playing cards with his family and friends daily for hours and hours. Pete was an avid Steelers fan but his greatest pleasures was attending and watching Pitt , Albany, and Stanford football games. He was also a loyal fan of the Pitt Dance Team. He enjoyed every morning spent with his nephews, Dean, Brandon, and Terry, with a cup of coffee and telling stories.
For 67 beautiful years, Pete shared his life with the love of his life, his high school sweetheart, Gwendolyn (Odelli) German of Smithton. Their marriage was a true testament of love, commitment, friendship, and a lifetime of memories. It was always Pete & Gwen. He is also survived by his daughter, Lisa D. Nickels ( Greg Cominsky) of Herminie; and son, Donald “Hutch” (Diana) German of Jefferson Hills; four special grandchildren, Erica ( Nate) Byham, Hilary (Harry ) Van Trees, Lexie ( Dom) Presto, and Tyler German; five special great-grandchildren, Grayson, Evelyn, Weston, Tripp and Dominic Hutch; special sister, Sharon Walker of Murrysville; and numerous nieces and nephews, great- nieces and great-nephews, who loved him more than just an uncle.
Pete will be forever be remembered for the love he gave his family, his sense of humor, his stories, and the special moments he shared with those around him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and special memories , that will live on in the heart of his family and friends.
The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at both AHN Jefferson and Penn Highlands Mon Valley Hospital , Amedisys Hospice, and Fresenius Medical Care for all their love and compassionate care given to Pete.
Friends will be received from 1 - 8p.m. on Sunday, August 16, 2026 at the Joseph W. Nickels Funeral Home Inc. , 404 Sewickley Ave., Herminie, PA 15637. A funeral mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Monday, August 17, 2026 in Seven Dolors Church, Yukon, with Rev. David Nazimek as celebrant. Interment will follow in St. Timothy Cemetery, Smithton. In lieu of flowers please make donations to Seven Dolors Church, PO Box 308, Yukon, Pa, 15698. To send online condolences, please visit www.nickelsfuneralhomeinc.com.
WE LOVE YOU DAD❤️