UPDATE - The originally planned gathering for Wednesday, January 24, 2024 has been postponed. A rescheduled date will be posted here when available.

Peter Dechnik, Jr., of Riverton, New Jersey, passed away on January 14, 2024, at age 88.

Peter was born above his parents' Peter Sr., and Lilian's saloon on Kaign Avenue in Camden on May 30, 1935. Drinks were on the house the next day.

His family relocated to Cherry Hill, where Peter graduated from Merchantville High School. He then enrolled in his beloved alma mater Rutgers University, which he frequently extolled by regaling his family with "On the Banks of the Old Raritan."

After graduation, Peter moved to New York City, where he used his writing skills to begin a career in publishing. During his time in New York, he met Susan Gilrod, who captivated him with her smile, her wit and her Studebaker Lark.

Peter and Susan married on August 20, 1965, and eventually settled in Riverton, where they raised their children Steven and Jill.

Peter's family remember him fondly for his curiosity about the world and its history. From ancient Rome to World War II, he read extensively and shared freely what he learned.

Peter reminds us to enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Whether it is sitting in the yard, soaking in the sun and sounds of the birds, or savoring a cold beer and a cheesesteak. Starting each day with a freshly brewed cup of coffee and a toasted bagel with cream cheese, and ending it with a dish of ice cream.

Peter was a true music fan. From the timeless melodies of the Beatles to the classics of the Broadway stage, but especially the genius of Mozart, whose birthday he faithfully celebrated each January 27th while wearing his Mozart cap.

Peter was pre-deceased by his son Steven. He is survived by his wife Susan, daughter Jill Loxterman (ne' Dechnik), son-in-law John Loxterman, and most importantly, granddaughter Abigail Loxterman, his pride and joy.

Donations in Peter's name may be made to Wills Eye Hospital, or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Arrangements by the Weber Funeral Home, Riverton, NJ