Peter Banaszak

Andrew Peter Banaszak, affectionately known as Pete, passed away on October 23, 2026, at the age of 82. Born May 21, 1944, in Crivitz, Wisconsin, Pete lived a remarkable life filled with family, friendships, unforgettable stories, and accomplishments both on and off the football field.

Pete grew up in a proud Polish family, where he developed the values, determination, and strong work ethic that would guide him throughout his life. A talented athlete in High School, he earned a football scholarship to the University of Miami, and in 1983 was inducted into their Sports Hall of Fame. His football journey continued when he was drafted in the fifth round by the Oakland Raiders of the then AFL in 1966.

Pete went on to enjoy an outstanding 13-year professional football career with the Raiders. He became a key contributor to the team's victory in Super Bowl XI; scoring two touchdowns in the game. In 1975, he scored 16 rushing touchdowns, a remarkable achievement that remains a Raider single-season record.

In 1990, Pete was inducted into the National Polish-American Sports Hall of Fame. It was an especially proud and meaningful honor for him to have Raiders owner, Al Davis, serve as his presenter.

Following his football career, Pete began a new chapter with Crowley Maritime Corporation in San Francisco, California. In 1984, Peter and his family relocated to Jacksonville, Florida, where he continued to build on his career, eventually becoming Vice President of National Accounts. He retired from full-time employment in 2004 but continued working as an independent contractor for Crowley for another ten years.

Pete connected with the Jacksonville sports community during the early years of the Jaguars; he appeared on an after-game talk show sharing his football knowledge and love of the game. Peter was also chairman of the local NFL Alumni Jacksonville chapter golf tournament, which raised money for local youth charities. 

While Pete accomplished much throughout his life, his greatest pride and joy was always his family. In 1969, he married Sue, beginning a marriage that spanned 57 years. Together, they raised two daughters, Becky and Amy, and they built a family filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories.

Pete especially cherished his role as a grandfather, "Papa" to Luke, Austin, and Connor. He loved attending their football, basketball, and soccer games, and was always proud to cheer them on and give advice, whether asked for or not.

He enjoyed playing golf, spending time with family and friends, and above all, sharing stories. Pete had a wonderful smile and a gift for telling stories from his never-ending supply. His stories, laughter, and unmistakable personality could light up a room, and those who knew him will forever remember the joy he brought to their lives.

Pete is survived by his wife, Sue; daughters Becky and Amy; son-in-law Derek; grandsons Luke, Austin, and Connor; sisters Jane and Marge; and his brother Paul. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, former teammates, and all who had the privilege to know him.

A funeral mass will be held on December 7, 2026, at 10:30 am at St. Peter Chanel Catholic Church in Roswell, Georgia. A reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a donation in Pete's name be made to the Biletnikoff Foundation at Biletnikoff.org in support of at-risk girls.

Pete's life was about so much more than football. He was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, proud son of a Polish family, successful businessman, and a friend to many. his smile, stories, and memories will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

He will always be remembered, always loved, and never forgotten.