James Lloyd ‘Pete’ Laird – West Newton

James Lloyd “Pete’’ Laird, 77, of West Newton, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 1, 2022, in his home. Born in Mt. Pleasant on Jan. 7, 1945, he was the son of the late Harold and Janet Rae Laird. In July of 1963, Pete entered the Marine Corps and served honorably for two tours of duty in Vietnam, separating from the service as a staff sergeant in April 1970. Highly decorated, he received the National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Vietnamese Service Medal with three Stars, the Vietnamese Campaign Medal, Air Medal with Bronze Star, Combat Air Crew Wings with three Stars and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm. Following his honorable discharge, Pete proudly served on the West Newton Borough Police force as police chief for several years. He recently retired after 40 years of service to Eastern Machine & Conveyors Inc. as shop superintendent. Pete enjoyed hunting, fishing and riding motorcycles, and was also a member of the Collinsburg Slovenian Club, Liederkranz Club and West Newton VFW. Pete was a man of incredible strength and courage, with a reputation for his protective nature, as well as always being willing to help a friend in need. He also had a great love for all animals, especially his dog, Bandit. Pete is survived by his wife of 51 years, Janine M. Calcagni Laird. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, James Laird Jr.; and brother, Thomas Laird. A memorial service with military honors will be held in West Newton Cemetery Chapel at 11 a.m. Monday with Pastor Tom Ravasio officiating. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to JAMES C. STUMP FUNERAL HOME INC., 580 Circle Drive, Rostraver Township, 724-929-7934, www.jamesstumpfuneralhome.com.