Pete was another victim of leukemia. His physician had recommended massive blood transfusions to combat the infection and suggested a bone marrow transplant that could extend his life for several months. Pete, without disturbing his family and friends, chose not to extend his life for such a short period of time. Rather, he elected to continue his remaining days in the style that he so heartily enjoyed. No one knew that Pete was dying from an incurable disease.

The shock of Pete's death swelled into a crescendo of anger during his funeral at sea. Upwards of 400 friends and acquaintances attended the unusual ceremony, not a few of which were women. Marty Szillat, a long time friend, suddenly found himself surrounded by anguished mourners who seemingly refused to accept the tragedy. It was there, during the funeral, off the coast of San Diego, that an offhand remark sparked an idea that has grown into Mexico's most cherished and respected fishing tournament, the Pete Lopiccola Memorial Marlin Tournament. The offhand remark was, "Let's keep him alive by doing something about Leukemia. For Pete's sake."

Pete passed away in January, 1988, but by October of that same year the first Pete Lopiccola Memorial Marlin Tournament was held in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The participants, for the most part, were personal friends of the former captain, and the turnout was small. The following year some ninety anglers participated. With each passing year the tournament continues to increase in size.

The Tournament is Retired

Cabo San Lucas

CAPTAIN PETE LOPICCOLA MEMORIAL
CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION
Cabo San Lucas, tournament headquarters are located at Latitude 22+ Road House.

1224 Greenfield Dr. El Cajon, CA 92021
(619) 590-0178 Fax: (619) 590-9097
Tax ID # 33-0419105

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