AUSTIN, Texas — MSGT Garnett “Pete” Sketers, retired, went to be with his Lord, at home, received his blessing of eternal life with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2011. He was 93 years old.

Pete was born on March 3, 1917, in Parsons to Mr. and Mrs. R.C. Sketers.

In 1942, Pete was transferred to BTC No. 8 in Fresno, Calif., where he met his lovely wife, Grace. After 62 days of courtship, they were married on March 3, 1943. One year later, their daughter, Sharon, was born. After the war, he transferred to Eglin Air Force Base, where his son, Fred, was born.

During his time in the military, he served as sergeant major in eight different commands. He received several accommodations from the Air Force and also was a Boy Scout leader, Master Mason and Blue Santa in Austin.

After Pete retired from the Air Force, he started his second career as a carpenter. His Austin home was the second he had built, having previously built his home in Sherman, Texas. Pete helped build several homes in Battle Bend Springs in Austin, where he lived. He and Grace were married for 59 years.

Heaven rejoiced as he joined the loved ones who had passed before while those he left behind celebrate the boundless peace and joy that is his reward. Garnett was met in heaven by his mother and father; wife, Grace Sketers; and son, Fred. There he waits to be joined by his beloved family, his daughter, Sharon and her husband, J.D.; five grandchildren; a granddaughter-in-law; and two great-grandchildren.

Interment will be at 10:45 a.m. today at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio.

MSGT Pete Sketers, U.S. Air Force, has received his final orders and has been transferred to his Celestial Home. He is now retired with God and his Son, Jesus Christ.