L. W. "Pete" Kent

Pete was born to Mr. and Mrs. Warren Kent in Wyoming in November 1925. His family moved to Freeport, Illinois when he was a young boy. He joined the Navy the day after his 18th birthday, serving during World War II. He attended Rice University in the Navy's V12 program. His career took him into many different industries before he retired.

After retiring, he went into the gourd business and also grew grapes for making wine. Pete was one of the organizers of the Texas Gourd society in 1996. For years, he attended every TGS meeting, and crafted gourds for the annual TGS Gourd Festival.

He loved life, and people, particularly children. He never met a stranger and would start up a conversation with anyone. All who crossed paths with Pete are richer for the experience. Pete particularly enjoyed spending time this past year with his children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughters. He was surrounded by family members when he passed from this life in June, 2013.

Pete is survived by his son Mike Kent, daughter Lori Kent Savoie, 4 grandchildren, 2 great-granddaughters, his sister Marge Kent Stocker and wife of 22 years, Betty C. Kent.