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Peter Edwin Hess

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Brandywine High School University of Virginia

Peter Hess Obituary

Peter Edwin Hess

Peter Edwin Hess: Our son, brother, uncle, friend and dad

Peter passed away suddenly on January 12, 2012. He will be missed dearly by his family and friends, but mostly by his beloved son Benjamin. Peter was 52.

Peter was an avid shipwreck underwater explorer and maritime attorney for more than 30 years. His clients have been involved with the recovery of Spanish galleons, Gold Rush shipwrecks, windjammers laden with Oriental porcelain, 20th-century luxury liners, warships and warplanes, and sunken pleasure yachts. Peter led and/or participated in five archaeological expeditions to the 235-foot-deep USS Monitor.

It was Peter's unyielding and passionate advocacy for divers worldwide that allowed access to historical wrecks, which led to the creation of several maritime and nautical exhibits throughout the world.

A Fellow in the Explorers Club, Peter served as the chairman of the Philadelphia Chapter from 1994 until 1998. He was elected to the club's board of directors in 1996 and was appointed vice president for membership and to a second term. He was named chairman of the Explorers Club's Legal Committee.

Peter was a serious history buff, putting to shame anyone who dared challenge him in Jeopardy. His love of war gaming started as a child, where he spent countless hours painting toy soldiers with great precision. He maintained lifelong friendships with fellow war gamers who replicated battles, particularly the Civil War.

Peter graduated from Brandywine High School. He earned his bachelor's at the University of Virginia--which he believed firmly was the only university that truly mattered--then graduated from Tulane University Law School. He was considered an expert in the fields of exploration, maritime and admiralty law. He lectured throughout the world.

Peter was a vociferous Eagles fan. He loved to watch games with his son while devouring chicken wings. His Mardi Gras parties were legendary, and his love of life and people was evident in everything he did. He had a preference for '70s clothing, which, amazingly, still fit and came back in style regularly.

Peter is survived and loved by his parents, Grayce and Sid Hess, his son Benjamin Hess, his friend and Ben's mom Maria Hess, his sisters Debra Hess Norris (Bob Norris) and Diana Hess-Fisher (Mark Fisher), his nieces, Sarah and Maggie Norris and Paige Fisher, and his nephew, Brendon Fisher. He will be remembered fondly by many.

Peter never had a negative word to say about anyone. We will carry his optimism and generosity with us forever. His son will miss him so very much. Sail on, Peter.

Services will be held at Concord Presbyterian Church, 1800 Fairfax Blvd., Wilmington, DE 19803 on Saturday, January 21 at 11 am. A celebration of Peter's life will follow the service in the church's Fellowship Hall. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Benjamin Hess College Fund, and may be mailed to: M&T Bank, Fairfax, 2301 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE 19803. Please make the check payable to M&T Bank and please mention the Benjamin Hess College Fund in the memo.

Messages of condolence may be sent to
www.mccreryandharra.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The News Journal from Jan. 14 to Jan. 16, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Peter Hess

Sponsored by Daniel Bennett.

71 Entries

Barbara hoffman

January 8, 2022

it seems like only yesterday we were throwing scotch in the fire. you are in my heart and mind Cheers Barbara hoffman MR '85Explorers Club

Chris Fennessy

April 7, 2018

I think about Peter quite often. They say that time heals, but I think that somehow you just learn to live with the loss. I cannot believe that he has been gone for over six years now. I knew him from Springer, but even before that. He was a close war gaming buddy of my older brother, Dave Sorber. Peter always knew how to make me laugh, and when, in order to pull me out of a bad mood. All I can do now is continue to remember the good times. I hope his entire family is able to do the same. I just never realized how truly special he was, because, "you don't know what you've got til it's gone"...Most sincerely, Chris Sorber Fennessy

Demirel Mustafa

September 29, 2016

Hi, good men, i cant believe what i saw after so many years, i was intended to cone over nj to make a surprise but you did before than us.
Maria and benjamin, pls do not hesitate to write or call us when you need something from istanbul.

John Brewer

October 2, 2013

I am so sad upon hearing about Peter's passing. He and I were very close for many years, and have had some of the most amazing adventures together, including a dive to the Texas Tower (190' on AIR), legendary parties at 14 The Strand, New Castle, De. and especially our outing to the Arundo where we successfully bagged a giant bug in zero vis. Pedro, I will miss you forever. It has been a great pleasure, honor and privilege to have been your close friend for all those early years. RIP.

March 27, 2013

To Peter's Family - I belatedly just learned of Peter's passing, and I am so sorry to hear. As evidenced by the entries in the guest book, he was well loved. I was his housemate first year at Tulane and I loved Peter's many endearing qualities. His 70's garb was beyond compare, and particularly his large belt buckle of which he was so proud and his unique and eclectic record collection. I too had a love for admiralty law and shipwrecks (wrote a law review article on the maritime law of salvage rights) but chose a more conventional path for my career unlike his intrepid continuation in pursuit of his love. May God bless him as he continues his explorations into other realms of the after life. All the best.

Greg Montgomery

Jim Martin

February 12, 2012

Condolences to the Hess family, and especially to Benjamin. As recently as last month, Peter and Benjamin swam with us in the masters group at the Y and played racquetball after that. I enjoyed Peter's friendship for more than 25 years, and we used to go wreck diving in the Atlantic. I hope Benjamin will join us at the Y again soon. In sympathy and friendship,

Kevin Denlay

February 2, 2012

Ode for Peter

I hope there's a place, way down in the sea,
Where divers can go, when at rest they must be.
A place where a guy could buy a cold beer
For a friend and a buddy whose memory is dear.
Just a quaint little place, kind of dark, full of brass,
Where they like to sing loud, and love a good pass!
But still the kind of a place where even a lady could go,
And feel safe and secure by the men she would know.

There must be a place where old divers go,
When their legs become weary, when their breathing gets low;
Where the whiskey is old, and the women are young,
And songs about diving and wrecks they found are all sung.
Where you'd see all the fellows who'd ‘dived deep' before,
And they'd call out your name, as you came thru the door,
Who would buy you a drink, if your thirst should be bad,
While telling all the others, "He was quite a good lad!"
And then through the murk you'd spot an old man
You had not seen for years, though he'd once shown you a ‘plan',
He'd nod his old head, and grin ear to ear,
And say, "Welcome, my son, I'm pleased you are here!”

For this is the place where all divers must come,
When their diving is over, and their depths have been swum;
We've come here at last, to be safe and afar,
From the government clerk, and the management czar,
The Politicians, the Feds and all that surface noise,
Where all Hours are Happy, and all these good ol' boys,
Can relax with a 'cool one', and a well deserved rest.
"This is Heaven, my son: You've passed your last test!”

My sincere condolences to his family and friends.

Jack Dyer

February 1, 2012

Where does one start? I hired Peter to litigate an Admiralty claim as his first private practice job. The judge admonished Peter and told him he would be in Contempt of Court if he didn't sit down. Peter's tenacity and optimism allowed him to continue on and finally convince the Judge to change his mind. Incalculable loss for those of us private individuals who wish to be able to dive and salvage shipwrecks. I want his family to know how much he meant to us. Jack Dyer privateer

Bonnie Dover

January 25, 2012

I am sorry to say I never knew Peter personally- only through the underwater archeology-but I must say I respected and admired much he had to say. He must have been an amazing man. I lost my father (who was more into caving and exploration) two years ago , and its been one of the hardest experiences of my life yet. All I can really say is that it is important to recognize what they've accomplished and remember.
Love...

Pat Clyne

January 24, 2012

The Storm:

The ensign yells, “Yo boy, where ye be”?
“Securing the anchor sir,” the boy yells out.
“Stop dallying with that which slips.
Lower the jib that takes the wind.”
“The Jib sir lets us head to the wind.”
“Who taught you such things the ensign replied.”
“No one sir, save my own common sense.”
“Yay, this may have saved us in this perilous storm,
But don't ever again resort to thee own given mind.
For underlings to think their own, will upset the divine.”

Peter Hess always used his own given mind. His legacy is his monument.

Your dive buddy- Pat Clyne

Joanne Anderson

January 21, 2012

Dear Hess family and friends, I am so very sorry for your great loss. I haven't seen Peter since our childhood, marching in Mr. Palmer's annual July Fourth parade, riding bikes, and exploring all the new houses as they were being built in Sharpley. We had a lot of fun. He accomplished so many great things in his short life; I wish him peace. Special thoughts to Benjamin.

Darlene Hankins(Sweetman)

January 21, 2012

I keep looking at Peter's Obit, and I can't get over the fact that he has passed. I have to tell his friends/family.. that I worked with him in the 80's - Department of Labor - and everyone loved him.. He told all kinds of stories and made the Department a family, not just a place to work... I never saw him again after he left, but always wondered and talked about how his life was going... Be proud of your dad/uncle/brother/friend (he was a great man) RIP PETER..

Dale Harris

January 20, 2012

Peter and I were college fraternity brothers. He brought a lot of enthusiasm to everything he did. My deepest sympathy to his family.

Joseph Ramzy

January 20, 2012

I swam with Peter for many years with the Masters Swim Team. In fact we swam together in the same lane only 2 days prior to his shocking and untimely passing. He was a true friend always and I will miss him forever.

Bill Blanchard

January 19, 2012

I knew Peter in high school and admired his knowledge on history. My sympathies to his family.

Jenny (Trumbull) Dutton

January 19, 2012

Peter always had a twinkle in his eye!

January 19, 2012

Peter was a member of the legal committee when I was chair and then suceeded me. While we did not always agree on the rights of salvors, i respected his views. He was a great friend to the Club and will be missed. We are shocked at this tragedy and sen our deepest sympathy. Barbara T Hoffman Explorers Club'83

Susan Rouse Kee

January 19, 2012

Deepest sympathies for your loss. Peter will be greatly missed, but will always be in your hearts.

Gene Lewis & Buster White

January 19, 2012

Peter was a true friend and a great lawyer who will be sorely missed. He gave freely of his time and knowledge to his colleagues. Another great admiralty mind with a fighting spirit is gone. Sincere condolences.

Joseph Larusso

January 18, 2012

TO The Hess Family - Peter Hess was A Great Dive Buddy, Explorer and Shining Soul while visiting with Us in This Life. He was A Passionate Heart and Shining Light in ALL Our Lives. Wishing Him, The Hess Family and His many Friends much Peace, in knowing, He's Diving in Big Blue below, and Swimming in The Stars Above! Peace & Love, Jojoe aka Scuba Joe

Bill Merritt

January 18, 2012

I was a high school friend of Pete. I have two memories of him that stand out in my mind. The first was that in school , he liked to sign his name Peter Hess, Esquire, because he knew that he wanted to be a lawyer. The second memory was that I gave Pete a ride home on the last day of high school. It was a rainy day, and I thought as he walked up to his house, there goes somebody who is going to live a full life.
I only saw him a few times after that, but it's obvious from the adventures I have read about him, he led a very full life. I just wish that he could have had more years to live that life. He was truly a special person.

Gwyn Reeves

January 18, 2012

I met Pete proabably 10 years ago and he was just as you described in the obituary. We always talked at the conventions and he was a good friend.He will be missed in the gaming community. My condolences to his family.

Keith Taylor

January 18, 2012

My condolences to the family. Rest well my fellow diver.

Cheryl Istvan

January 17, 2012

My heart is so sad at the loss of Peter, a dear friend. I met him when I joined the Explorers Club while he was VP of Membership; in fact, he was one of my sponsors. He was a great supporter of the Chicago Chapter, and he became a great friend as well. I listened to him talk with excitement about the impending birth of his child, and got regular, enthusiastic updates over the years as Ben grew. Oh how he loved that boy! He told me stories of Maria, and their fiery courtship, their wedding, and their great friendship. Peter was so positive, so cheerful, he made me feel better when I was blue or discouraged just by listening to him talk about his adventures. He was smart and interesting and brash, but underneath it all he was a really sweet guy. A one of a kind, for sure. The world is diminished by his passing, and I can't believe I will never hear from him or see him again. To Benjamin, Maria, and his parents, my deepest sympathies on the loss of a wonderful man.

January 17, 2012

Dear Mr annd Mrs Hess, Debbie and Diana
My deepest sympathy to you , Peter's son and all of your loved ones. - as many I was shocked to hear of his untimely death. His love of maritime history, scuba diving had intorduced us through my Dad. My father also passed this summer and I cherish fondly Peter's thoughtfullness and generousity upon gifted to me a "Piece of Eight" from the Atocha wreck( given to Peter from my father). I envision the two of them together in a new exploration!
Warm regards,
Jennifer Amoroso Briggs

January 17, 2012

Condolences for Peter Hess

To Benjamin Hess and Family

Oh my G-d.! It was with deep sorrow that I heard about the passing of my good friend Peter Hess. He will be much missed by all who knew him and The Explorers Club will be diminished by his passing. My life has been enriched by knowing him and Robert was particularly fond of him.

During my Presidency of The Club, Peter was one of The Explorers Club Officers and I could always rely on his support and guidance. On the completion of my term in office Peter telephoned me and quoting from the Wizard of Oz said Faanya, I shall miss you most of all. I now return that quote Peter I shall miss you most of all.

I shall never forget you, your cheerfulness and your many kindnesses to Robert. Rest in peace dear Peter

My deepest sympathy and condolences to his Family and especially to Benjamin. If there is anything I can do during this sad but busy time please ask me.

In trying to comfort you may I say that To live in the hearts you leave behind is not to die. Peter will always live in our hearts.

Love

Faanya

Herb & Veronica Segars

January 16, 2012

We didn't know Peter as well as a lot of others but we admired his drive, knowledge and tenacity. Our prayers go out to his family and we pray that they can find comfort in the fact that Peter has undertaken the ultimate final exploration. He left his legacy in your hearts and you can pass his amazing life through the generations so that he is never forgotten. There is a grand plan for all of us and we have no doubt that Peter has fulfilled his part in this mysterious journey and he will be waiting for all his loved ones as they complete theirs. May God welcome Peter into his arms and may all his family find the strength to continue forward.

Nella & Myer Glick

January 16, 2012

Dear Grayce, Sid and Family,
We were deeply saddened to learn of Peter's sudden passing.Our prayers are with you at this most difficult time.
We always enjoyed our conversations with Peter when he came down to Ocean City. He was a wonderful person, whom we admired very much.
With our deepest condolences.

Peggy Kerr

January 16, 2012

A sad message reached me tonight about Peter's death. It was a shock to learn such a vibrant, young-at-heart man is no longer alive. I remember fondly the day we spent at the Steamship Arabia museum in Kansas City, Missouri, several years ago. I also remember viewing the photo of Peter diving by the Monitor, a special honor, displayed in his parents' home. My condolences to all the Hess family and his friends join the host of messages already sent.

Peggy Kerr (second cousin)

Ron Alber

January 16, 2012

Peter finished a project for us just days before his passing and did a great job. I actually just received today an item he ordered for us and was saddened to see it as it reminded me of him and his passing. Rest in Peace Peter and although I never met you in person, I will always remember you. Ron Alber, GME/ARS

Kevin Lepley

January 16, 2012

Sorry to hear about this. Played in a quite a few game with Peter at the conventions, and it was always fun to play with such a nice guy. Kevin Lepley-Maryland

ben lev

January 16, 2012

We were so sorry to hear about Peter's passing - our deepest condolences.
Be strong and may God watch over you.
Debbie and Ben Lev.

Barbara Brodoway

January 16, 2012

Dear Benjamin and all your family - I am so sorry that you lost your father. You know, and a lot of other people have written, what a smart, fun, and adventurous person he was. All that is very true, but I remember Peter as a person with a good heart. He was always kind and saw the best in others. That's what's most important and I know you will take that with you. You, your Mom, your grandparents and family are in my prayers.

Nora Kennedy

January 16, 2012

My love to all in the Hess Family. May your memories of Peter and your great love for him and one another sustain you through the coming days, weeks, and months. Thinking of you all... Nora

Larry Daum

January 15, 2012

My deepest condolences to all who knew Pete, and especially all the members of his family. From first meeting him in 1976 at the MFCA show in Chester (since people only knew one wargamer in Wilmington!) to our great games in the basement on the ping pong table, he was a friend and an inspiration. I still remember his enthusiasm for marine salvage and his determination to be a part of that world way back then.

When he and I met most recently I had the pleasure of playing in his Siege of Vienna game at Historicon and pirate game in Baltimore, it was as if the intervening years hadn't even happened. I was also pleased and proud to meet Ben, who commanded our pirate center! He gave us all a lot of joy, friendship, and did great things. I will miss him, and am proud to have known him. Rest well, my friend.

January 15, 2012

I was so sorry to hear about Peter's passing...my prayers are with all of you.
Love, Cheryl Kuchler

Adam Galambos

January 15, 2012

We have so many great memories of Pete and his Mardi Gras and Halloween parties. It is hard to believe he is gone. We'll miss you Pete. Adam & Chrissy (Vienna, Austria)

Reed Oswalt

January 15, 2012

Have great memories of Peter on Kodiak Island on the Aleution diving enjoyed the stories of his other adventures

Sylvia Earle

January 15, 2012

Knowing Peter, a treasured friend, brightened my life and that of all who knew him. He will continue to do so through an amazing legacy of discoveries, insights, friendships, and experiences shared. Deepest sympathies to those closest to him, who know most clearly the magnitude of our collective loss.

john leonard

January 15, 2012

Peter will be greatly missed by so many people, certainly all of we his friends in the minatures wargaming world. Among his many gifts was his constant optimism, that was a spark and a light. Peter was passionately excited and a leader in his many hobbies and interests. He was a uniter, and inviter, and brought a lot of folks together. We miss you.

Robert Collins

January 15, 2012

I can't believe it. Peter was suppose to come over Tuesday to work on some war game rules. But canceled at last minute. We talked about getting together Thursday. Such sad news. I am so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. I will never forget him.

Priscilla Smith

January 15, 2012

My heart goes out to the Hess family in this time of sorrow. I met Peter through my work with shipwreck photography and we spent many hours discussing diving on wrecks, underwater photography and looking at his eclectic finds. His input was a valuable resource and he generously shared the prestigious Explorers Club in Philadelphia with me. His impact on diver's rights within maritime law cannot be overestimated. Peter was, in himself, a treasure.

Priscilla Smith
University of Delaware

Doug Jay

January 15, 2012

I have great memories of diving the U.S. Civil War era wrecks with Peter! A true loss to his many friend and those within the diving community!

steven cancell

January 15, 2012

I will always fondly remember our beers together talkin life and adventure outside the OC house. Peter will forever be missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to, Sid, Grace, Dianna, Mark, Debbie, Bob, and especially Benjamin. The world has lost a great man.....The Cancell Family ( Marlton NJ )

Niki Sandizell

January 15, 2012

We lost a brother in arms!

Dale Clifton

January 14, 2012

Peter was a friend for years and will be sadly missed by everyone in the field of maritime preservation. His passion for shipwrecks as well as his friendship will be missed by everyone who's life he touched through the years. Thanks for all the help and memories you have shown to me. Dale Clifton (DSM Museum)

Bernie Chowdhury

January 14, 2012

My deepest condolences to family and friends. It was such a shock to hear of Peter's sudden passing. He was a wonderful friend; I enjoyed discussing various diving, history and writing topics with him. We all know that Peter lived life largely, and enjoyed it so much. His grin was infectious; his love of exploration and wrecks inspirational; his friendship, generous and all-encompassing. I am richer in spirit for the privilege of having known Peter.
In deepest sympathy,
Bernie Chowdhury

Brian Hanson

January 14, 2012

All too sad to lose Peter so early! I served with Peter on the Board of The Explorers Club and considered him a very close friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with Maria and Benjamin, and with all of Peter's family. We can take solace in the many wonderful memories Peter has left with us. Sincerely...Brian P. Hanson

MIchele Wells Dinsmore

January 14, 2012

Benjamin and Maria, you have an open door and an open heart here in Colorado whenever you might need 'a diffrent view'.
Benjamin, I know nothing can diminsh the sadness you feel right now. But although you father has gone ahead of us all, he hjas not left you alone and he never will! he is breathing and smiling and growing inside you. I will share with you what my father told me before he passed away. He said" I dont know if I beleive in GOD or even if I beleive there is anything after I go, but I promise you that if you ever need to speak to me or just need to think out loud-well, you can just look up at the stars and I'll be the brightest star you can see! I'll be Twinkling back at you ! Where ever you may be!" And guess what? He was right. I've spoken to the stars -and I've heard him speaking back to me many times ever since! Love knows no bounds. Look up at the stars tonight and 'see' you are never alone!

January 14, 2012

My sympathies as a fellow diver.

Susan (Sue) Barrowman

January 14, 2012

I knew Peter from our days at A.I. duPont Elementary, Springer Junior High and Brandywine High School. He was someone that you knew would make a difference in the world with his passions. A few years back I needed some help, and he helped. I recall when speaking to him at that time that he was the only kid in grade school that carried a briefcase. You just knew he was going to be great. I hadn't seen Pete in years and wish I had stayed in touch. He was kind, sincere, generous, and was simply amazing in what he had accomplished in such a short time. I guess he had filled a lifetime and now has another place to explore. My sympathies go to his son, life partner, parents and everyone who is feeling this void. On behalf of your classmates from the beginning of your journey... Our Prayers go with you as you sail on. Honored Friend, Susan Barrowman

January 14, 2012

I am so sorry. Peter was such a warm, special person, he was a dear friend of my sister. My last memories are of him dancing...deepest sympathies,,,Ellen (Cordrey) deVrind

Rick Hansen

January 14, 2012

Peter was special. He was always willing to help. Because I was from the northwest I remember his insisting I get a tour of Philadelphia even though it was 1 am tour of the city. He helped on projects I was involved with in Alaska and Uruguay. He kept me appraised of current events and let me know when I needed to come east for Professional Explorer events.
He was kind man and everyone's friend.
My prayers to his son and family.

RODNEY BROWN

January 14, 2012

Words fail me, as the day before we were planning a new project. To all who knew him he was a bright point of light, a man of honor and an explorer in the pursuit of happiness and love of life. Things won't be the same without him. I have been assured the we will put together a memorial- remembrance service at the Explorers Club, so keep watch. May God rest his soul in eternal peace. Rodney Hilton Brown

Scott Landis

January 14, 2012

I am truly sorry for your loss. Peter was a great friend and competitor and will be greatly missed in the wargaming community.

January 14, 2012

This is a tragic, unexpected loss of a valued friend and fellow Explorer.
Ted Siouris, Manhattan.

Paul Bowersox

January 14, 2012

Peter was a childhood friend of mine who has held a special place in my heart for more than 45 years. At once both innocent and devilish, the mere thought of him still brings a smile to my face. Separated now by time, distance and life itself, Peter lives for me in memory yet green. I will miss him. My condolences to his family. As I read the postings on Facebook and here, I admire Peter all the more for the man he became. I consider myself blessed for having known him. Rest in peace, old friend, and godspeed to your final reward.

January 14, 2012

So sorry for your loss. Our deepest sympathies to the family and friends

Dave and Laraine Zappala

Lynda Roy

January 14, 2012

Peter lived "everyday like his hair was on fire" and often times he was a match.

You will be missed!

January 14, 2012

Our deepest sympathies to Peter's family and friends. He was a good friend to us always.
Sincerely,
Kendrick and Marcia McMahan

kevin mcgregor

January 14, 2012

From the depths of the seas, to the remote wilderness of Alaska, and into the courtrooms of this great land, Peter was a true adventurer and explorer. A great friend and undaunted supporter, we will miss Peter tremendously but will always be guided and inspired by his legal insight and zest for life few can match. Flying light planes in Alaska was just one of the many things we shared. Pulling Grayling fish from a remote Alaskan lake was a special time. Of course, he was diving in that lake an hour later. Being with Peter was always a thrill. His voice, always cheery with unending jokes and satire, is a wonderful permanent recording that will always be with me.
May the Northern Lights illuminate his path into what lies beyond.

January 14, 2012

I am so sorry to hear of Peters passing, my prayers go out to Perer and his family, Peter was the best of the underwater explorers.
Peter will truely be missed my the diving world.

eddie boyle Atlantic City NJ

Burt Ganz

January 14, 2012

What a Shock! We lost at Peter's passing a principled practitioner in a field he loved and a friend. He will be long remembered . . . and missed.

Donald kIRCHNER

January 14, 2012

So sorry for your loss.Don Kirchner

Duncan Mathewson

January 14, 2012

I was shocked to hear about the passing of my dear friend Peter. We first became friends in the early years of the Atlantic Alliance fighting legislation against shipwreck salvage and wreck diving. Over the years, we have had many terrific times together and he will be truly missed by my family and I. My condolences to his family. He will always be remembered in Key West by the diving community.

Daniel Bennett

January 14, 2012

Crossing the Bar

Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea,

But such a tide as moving seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep
Turns again home.

Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;

For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crost the bar.

By Alfred, Lord Tennyson
The Poetry Foundation

January 14, 2012

To the Hess Family:

I pray that you all are comforted by the Holy Spirit and gladdened by the fact that Pete has returned to his loving God. The earth will miss his passion for life and we who experienced it, are forever enriched. - John & Denise Beatty

In Negril, Jamaica with friends new and old for Duncan & Arlene Mathewson's 5-day wedding.

Arlene Mathewson

January 14, 2012

Janet Armitage

January 14, 2012

I am so sorry to hear about Peter. Glad to hear what a fine adult and kind person he grew up to be, I'm sure many people were touched by him. He was interesting and pretty nice for a younger brother (from the age of 8!), always in the basement setting up war games when we were down there looking at paint brushes. I remember when he got an article published on some point of military strategy at quite a young age. Please accept my deepest sympathy.

Gary Gabrysh

January 14, 2012

Our hearts ache by the shocking and sad news of Peter's unexpected passing. He was a dear friend in whom I was privileged to have. He meant so much to our family and was always unconditionally there for any support that you would need. He will be truly missed and Peter's legacy will always be an inspiration to each of us.
God Bless.
Gary Gabrysh and Family.

Dan Lieb

January 14, 2012

Peter and I were becoming close friends. You can tell when that sort of thing is happening. It's in the way you to talk to each other as time goes by. He helped me get into the Explorers Club, and he helped me with a history-based project for which I am forever grateful. We were working on a major celebration of RMS TITANIC when he suddenly died. When I heard the news a void opened in front me that was the place where Peter stood. I am stunned. I will miss him and will think about him often. I've already found myself talking to him - that smiling joker looking back.

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