Peter John Horan

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Peter John Horan, beloved father, brother, and community leader, who departed this life on October 19, 2026, at the age of 85.

Peter was born on June 17, 1941, in Chicago, IL, to the late John and Margaret Horan. He graduated from Glenbard West High School, in Glen Ellyn, IL, and continued his education at the University of Illinois, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in urban planning and development. On January 29, 1966, Peter married Carolyn Gohr. The couple had known each other since grade school, graduating in the same class, and later both graduated from the same university. Shortly after graduation, Peter and Carolyn made the move to Dayton, Ohio, where Peter began a remarkable career in city planning with the City of Kettering. He would go on to make an indelible mark on the community through his unwavering dedication and visionary spirit, retiring as Assistant City Manager for Community Development.

His passion for enhancing the community was evident in every endeavor he undertook. He envisioned a vibrant city center in Kettering that would celebrate the arts and the stunning natural beauty of the area. This vision culminated in the development of the Fraze Pavilion, a testament to his commitment to promoting cultural enrichment.

Post-retirement, Peter continued to serve the community as a project manager for the Schuster Center in Dayton, further contributing to the local arts scene. His contributions extended to the development of The Salvation Army Dayton Kroc Center, where he sought to promote inclusive access to the arts and community engagement.

Peter's influence reached beyond development; he was actively involved in Culture Works, The Community Foundation for the Dayton region, and numerous boards. Known for his meticulous eye for detail and aesthetic design, Peter's particular nature often paired with a great sense of humor endeared him to those who knew him best.

Along with his parents, Peter is preceded in death by his beloved wife of over 60 years, Carolyn, who passed away only six months earlier. He is survived by their two cherished daughters, Pattie (Frank) Bis and Pam (Kevin) Horan-Bussey; treasured grandchildren, Nicholas and Luke Bussey; brother, Jay (Lynn) Horan; and sisters, Maggie and Kathleen Horan.

A memorial gathering will be held to celebrate the lives of Peter and Carolyn on December 5 at Bethany Village, 6445 Far Hills Ave. Village Center Centerville, OH from 11:30 to 2:30, with words of remembrance being delivered at 1:00.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a charitable contribution to Fraze Pavilion, via the Kettering Parks Foundation, in honor of Peter’s lifetime commitment to promoting the arts in Kettering and the Greater Dayton area. To make an online donation: click the previous link, select “General Fund Donation,” and under “Additional Comments” please type “For Fraze Pavilion in honor of Pete Horan.” Checks can be made out to Kettering Parks Foundation (in the memo line, include “For Fraze Pavilion in honor of Pete Horan”) and mailed to: Kettering Parks Foundation, 3600 Shroyer Rd., Kettering, OH 45429.