Former Judge ‘Pete’ Searer honored at memorial service
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LEWISTOWN -- Former Judge Francis "Pete" Arthur Searer, 86, of Lewistown, was honored Tuesday during a special memorial service at the Mifflin County Courthouse celebrating his life and accomplishments as well as friendships he’s made along the way.
Searer was a local judge for many years and was honored by having family, friends and colleagues from all over the country come and share their special memories.
Alice Arnold, Pete’s court reporter, spoke of his patience and shared that he was a great mentor and teacher.
Arnold shared a story about how he would browse the dictionary during downtime to find words no longer commonly used and use them, so she would have to look them up.
"He was a really good person; he cared for his family, he cared about the people who came in front of him, and he cared about the impact he could have on people’s lives," Arnold said.
Timothy Searer, attorney at Tucker Arensberg law firm and Pete’s cousin, shared a story about how Pete helped him in his career.
Timothy said that Pete told him he did not need to work as a dentist, "so he got me into law school, helped me along the way (and) got me a job."
Colleagues who worked in the courtroom with Pete shared stories about his respect for others and his intelligence.
Others shared stories of old times, laughs and even arguments from college "chat" sessions. One thing was certain: Pete loved what he did, and he valued his relationships both in and out of the courtroom.
Pete, or "Judge," as many people called him, passed away on May 7, 2026. Born May 21, 1939, in Juniata Terrace, Pete attended Lewistown High School where he played basketball and track and was known in football for his "tremendous defensive play and fine pass-catching ability."
He earned National High School All-American honors and was named to the Associated Press All Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Team as an end.
Pete graduated with a degree in Mathematics from Lock Haven University while playing football for the Bald Eagles, where he set a record for blocked punts.
After two years as a math teacher and track and wrestling coach at Kishacoquillas High School, he went on to graduate from Dickinson School of Law.
Pete went on to a long and storied career as a lawyer in Mifflin County, serving as the county's first public defender, district attorney from 1971 to 1975, and judge of the Court of Common Pleas from 1982 to 1991.
He then started his own law practice and became active in his community. Pete was a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, Rotary, Kiwanis, Jaycees, Nash Car Club of America, Antique Car Club of America, Lewistown Country Club, Mifflin County Library Board of Directors, Mifflin County and Pennsylvania Bar Association and Mifflin County Democrats.
He never officially retired from the law profession; he just weaned back his hours to focus on family and personal interests.
He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Cathy as well as his sons Daniel, Nathan and Matthew; daughter Amy Davis; brothers John "Jack" Searer and Michael Britt; and other family members.