Clifford O. (Pete) Findlay was born in Pioche, Nevada, on June 19, 1919, and is a fourth generation Nevadan.  He was married to his wife, Mary Jo, for 56 years.  They have two sons, a daughter, and nine grandchildren.

His children were born, raised and educated in Las Vegas.  He has been a dedicated supporter of the education system from kindergarten up through the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.  He is an outstanding citizen who has been an integral part of the development of Las Vegas.

He served as a fighter pilot in the South Pacific during World War II.  After the war in 1946, he purchased the “Y Service Station” in Panaca, Nevada, where his interest in reconditioning used cars surfaced.  His talent for reconditioning cars helped with his decision to get into the automotive business.

Pete and Mary Jo moved to Las Vegas in 1959 where they opened a used car lot on Fremont Street.  The Findlay’s were awarded the Oldsmobile franchise in May of 1961.  From that modest beginning, Findlay Oldsmobile grew into 14 dealerships in Nevada, California, Arizona and Utah.  Mr. Findlay retired from the day-to-day operations in 1984; however, he still serves as the president of Las Vegas Auto Leasing and Findlay Oldsmobile.  All three of their children have carried on the family business since their father’s retirement.

Mr. Findlay is a major supporter of the Boys and Girls Club, Muscular Dystrophy Association, Wildlife Habitation of Nevada and the Rebel Golf Foundation of Nevada.  He is a member of the Las Vegas Founders’ Club and has served as president of the Elks Club.  He is a member of the Board of Directors of the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and the General Motors President Dealers Council.

Mr. Findlay is known as a man of his word.  He epitomizes the ethics and values that determine a true community leader.  He has played a major role in the growth of Las Vegas over the years and his accomplishments are known throughout the area.

Mr. Findlay passed away October 30, 2005. He was 86 years old.