Peter Berend

Madison - Peter Michael Berend, 91, of Madison, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 23, 2024, in the presence of his loving family.

Peter will be remembered for his generous nature and unassuming demeanor, the warmth and decency he showed to everyone who knew him, and, of course, his unmatched sense of humor, which often included puns delivered with a twinkle in his eye.

Born in 1933 in Budapest, Hungary, to Arthur and Piri Berend, Peter's early life was marked by the challenges of World War II, including the loss of his maternal grandparents in the Holocaust. In 1949, he emigrated to the United States, where he completed his high school education at Columbia Grammar and Preparatory School in New York City, graduating in 1950. He then pursued industrial design at the University of Bridgeport, a field that would define his professional life. Peter served in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1958. In 1961, seeking a change from city life, he moved to Wooster, Ohio, to join Rubbermaid, Inc. Soon after, he met Violet Carmichael, a recent immigrant herself. He was captivated by her voice and her English accent. They married in 1963 and made Wooster their permanent home. Along with Violet, he raised three children, whom he adored. Peter was profoundly grateful for his education, which helped him to realize his dreams as an American citizen. Believing that education was the key to a better life, he provided his own children with every opportunity to follow their dreams as well.

Peter's 35-year career at Rubbermaid was distinguished by his leadership in product design and development, contributing significantly to the company's success. A lifetime member of the Industrial Design Society of America, he was a mentor to many aspiring designers. He possessed a deep, lifelong appreciation for beauty, both natural and manmade. He loved a walk in the woods and, equally, a well-designed piece of cookware.

In retirement, his life was enriched with the fellowship of other retirees and friends. He cherished his time with Violet and devoted himself to the meticulous care of his home and enjoyment of family, whether hosting them in Wooster or traveling across the country to greet a new grandchild. In 2018, he and Violet moved to Madison to be closer to family.

Peter's family is thankful for numerous dedicated caregivers who gave him loving care and support during his final years.

Peter is survived by his wife, Violet; children, Jennifer (Andrew) Giesler, Stephen (Cynthia) Berend, and Thomas Berend; and grandchildren, Amanda and Noah Giesler, Clayton Berend, and Jakob Berend.

His family will announce a memorial service at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Alzheimer's Association in Peter's memory.