Peter Clifford Wachenfeld

Peter Clifford Wachenfeld

July 28, 1964 -- September 17, 2021

Peter “Pete” Clifford Wachenfeld was born on July 28th, 1964, to the late Richard and Ann (Miller) Wachenfeld. He grew up in Fair Haven, NJ with his older siblings Douglas B. Wachenfeld and Margaret “Peg” G. Wachenfeld. As a young boy, Pete loved to spend time on the water on the Navesink River and on the beach in Seabright, NJ.

Later, Pete moved with his parents to Wallingford, PA. Here he was involved in his church youth group. It was at church camp one summer that he accepted Jesus Christ as his savior. He was a huge sports fan and loved going to Flyers games with his brother and nephew Tim. He graduated from The Hun School in Princeton before joining the Marine Corps. Pete served in the Marine Corps, attending the Marine Corps Engineer School, graduating with honors in 1984. During his time of service he was selected as a Band of Brothers recipient and was promoted to Sergeant. He finished out his term of service in 1989 and returned to Wallingford.

Pete spent most of his career working in the HVAC industry, which well suited his interest in mechanical systems. He had an eye for detail and a meticulous approach to problem solving.

He had a passion for military history, astronomy and the great outdoors. His memory was legendary when it came to his interests in the Napoleonic Wars, WWII and astronomy. Pete could quote battle plans, discuss military tactics and tell you exactly how far it was to various galaxies. He loved being outdoors and kept himself fit and trim all his life.

But his greatest interests were his nieces, nephews and cousins. Pete was known to the adults in the family as “Saint Peter” because he would keep the children entertained in raucous games for hours. He played endless games of knockout basketball and baseball. He was always happiest when spending time with the kids.

Pete will be remembered for his willingness to lend a helping hand, his contagious smile, sense of humor, and his amazing signature laugh. As well as going back for thirds at Thanksgiving dinners.

One of Pete’s favorite films was It’s a Wonderful Life. Clarence reminds us all of how much we will miss him: “Strange, isn't it? Each man's life touches so many other lives. When he isn't around he leaves an awful hole, doesn't he?”

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in honor of “Peter Wachenfeld” to The National World War II Museum in New Orleans, LA to which Pete was a charter member since 2003 and/or The National Museum of the Marine Corps in Sterling, VA to which Pete was also a founding member also since 2003. The family will hold a private service in memory of Peter Wachenfeld.

They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters; These see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep.- Psalm 107