Paul Pitti (88), the last of Culver’s City’s cowboys, passed away peacefully in his home in Culver City. Paul was born at 4191 Lincoln Ave. in Culver City. Baptized at St. Augustine Catholic Church, he remained a faithful parishioner serving as a head usher for over 20 years.
The Pitti family was among the first 500 families to settle in the town that would become known as “The Heart of Screenland” home to several motion picture studios. Paul’s father, Bennie Pete Pitti, was renowned in the movie industry for his expertise with bullwhips, roping, stunt riding and knife throwing.
When WWII broke out, Paul enlisted in the Marine Corps on Dec. 8, 1942. He proudly served his country fighting in the South Pacific. He used to say “I made four beachhead landings and walked away without a scratch.” His last battle was in Okinawa.
Paul worked with his father, Bennie Pete, and older brother, Carl, in the entertainment business. However, after Paul married Shirley, the love of his life and his first child was born he decided to try a different line of work. This led to a successful 35 year career at Hughes Aircraft.
Upon his retirement at age 62, he and Shirley travelled the world. In 2001, Pamela, his daughter, prompted Paul and Shirley to return to entertainment, forming the New Westernaires and playing the old time Cowboy campfire music at Cowboy Poetry Festivals and other venues with Pam and the son-in law Randy,’
Paul was a beloved member of the community, a good neighbor and friend who was always available to help others in need. He has joined his beloved wife of 59 years in heaven.
He is survived by his daughter, Pamela, Turner (Randy), son Ben Pitti (Lei), grandchildren Robert and Jennifer Pitti, Nickolas and Ashley Turner, great grandson Dylan Huybrecht and his beloved dog Skipper.
Services will be held Saturday April 28 at 11 a.m. at Holy Cross Cemetery – Mortuary Chapel-5835 West Slauson Ave, Culver City.
Reader Comments(0)