Peter Joseph Hargitai

Peter Joseph Hargitai, husband, father and Big Daddy. January 28, 1947-2026.Peter was a widely recognized as an award-winning author, translator and poet. He had boundless energy for creativity, literature, and the daily adventure. He was a life-long companion for his wife of 60 years, Dianne; a father of two, Suzie Juliano and Peter Hargitai; and Big Daddy to five, Shain, Katie, Peter, Luke and Alec (and his new great- grand baby, Jenni). He championed his family and instilled virtues in his children and grandchildren that seem lost in today's world. He didn't really care what you cared about (if it wasn't about love or a view of the mundane that only a keen eye could appreciate); he didn't waste any time with false idols. He was full of creativity and laughter, and he had zany stories and personal adventures that will continue to entertain us for our lifetimes. If you met Peter, you'd remember Peter (and you'd be smiling doing so).As a professor at University of Miami and Florida International University, Peter spent four decades imparting his wisdom on students and faculty. Later, after retiring to Gulfport, he served as the local Poet Laurate for three consecutive years – and frequently entertained with his poetry readings. Friends, family, and academia in Hungary, Cleveland, Miami and Gulfport will miss Peter dearly. We'll see you in heaven, and we can't wait to find out what kind of mischief you've caused up there!