Peter Baer Gontrum

Peter and I were close friends at Haverford in the '50s, but we lost contact in the pursuit of our careers. I helped my late wife cope with MS for 52 years. I know his family and many friends will miss his sweet spirit. God bless his memory.

Peter was such a remarkable man, a caring and supportive colleague, and a gentle friend. Knowing him enriched my life beyond measure. My heartfelt sympathy to Maggie, and to Katy, Elsa and David on their loss.

I am so sorry and sad to hear this news and send so much love to David, Maggie and the family. The time I spent with Peter and Maggie had such a profound impact on me and I think of it as a time filled with sunshine and challenging conversations and wise advice and tenderness. I feel so fortunate to have had that time together, and it is as vivid in my memory as though it were yesterday....

In remembering (nearly!) a lifetime of having known Peter's wonderful spirit, this seems most appropriate:

The Apple Orchard

Come let us watch the sun go down
and walk in twilight through the orchard's green.
Does it not seem as if we had for long
collected, saved and harbored within us
old memories? To find releases and seek
new hopes, remembering half-forgotten joys,
mingled with darkness coming from within,
as we randomly voice our thoughts...

Peter's passing brought to an end a friendship of nearly 60 years. For most of that time, we lived 6,000 miles apart,and meetings were rare. But they were special.
Among many memories are four days in 1957 in Salzburg with Peter and Mozart, and, years later, a warm evening on the deck of the house in Fairmount, drinking wine in the company of wonderful friends. Peter will be remembered for many qualities-his humour,his warmth,his humanity; add to that the courage with which he faced many...

My children and I knew Peter as a gentle person and a loyal friend.

Fred Munz

Maggie and family:
Our thoughts are with you and we miss Peter very much. We will be in touch and hope to see you soon.
Love,
Jo and Pete von Hippel

Many good memories over the years of Peter's cheerfulness, thoughtfulness, and kindness. With best, best wishes to Maggie and family.

We were sad to hear of Peter's passing. He was such a good friend to my mother during the few months that she lived at Fox Hollow. He made her feel welcome there, and they shared many stories of their life histories and events. He was so interested in everyone and everything --- truly a remarkable man. Our deepest sympathy to Maggie and family.

Nancy Bray and Herb Everett