Peter R. Campbell

Peter Ray Campbell, born on May 20, 1986, at Hamot Hospital in Erie, PA, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2024, surrounded by friends and family. Peter was a beacon of joy and resilience, his journey defined by love, laughter, and an indomitable spirit.

From the moment he entered this world, Peter's infectious smile lit up the room. Despite facing the challenges associated with Down Syndrome, Peter's presence left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

A proud graduate of General McLane High School in 2006, Peter endeared himself to classmates and teachers alike. Whether managing the school band's equipment with unwavering dedication or brightening the cafeteria with his warmth, Peter's contributions were invaluable. As a fully included special needs student, Peter progressed through school and then graduated with the same group of friends he started school with creating lifelong friendships and memories.

In his youth, Peter's enthusiasm knew no bounds, from his passion for weightlifting to his achievements as a member of the Blue Dolphins swimming team. Peter greeted all friends with a huge smile and an energetic high-5!

Peter's resilience shone brightest in the face of adversity, overcoming numerous medical challenges with courage and grace. His love for life extended to his hobbies, whether immersing himself in PlayStation games or indulging in his fascination with the FBI. His adventurous spirit led him across borders, embarking on unforgettable journeys to Germany and England alongside his beloved mother to visit his brother. He also frequently traveled to California to visit his Grandmother, Aunt, and Uncle where he loved to swim in the Pacific Ocean and spend hours on California beaches.

Known for his mischievous wit, Peter's antics brought laughter to those around him, especially when teasing the staff at Erie Homes. A true individualist, he aspired to independence, embodying determination in all facets of his life. His stubborn determination and knack for negotiation, particularly evident at bedtime, mealtime, and choosing daily activities and restaurants, were legendary among his family and friends. 

Peter's joy in manipulating situations extended beyond daily routines; his love of paperwork knew no bounds. He found solace in meticulously writing and rewriting basketball and football stats from the local newspaper, a testament to his dedication and attention to detail. His paperwork was a core activity he enjoyed throughout his life.

Peter's passions were as diverse as they were endearing, from his love for Harry Potter complete with a visit to the Harry Potter theme park at Universal Studios, to action and adventure films like Spiderman, Superman, Supergirl, and Mission Impossible.  Peter and Hermione Granger from the Harry Potter books lived by a simple rule, “When in doubt, go to the library.” Peter spent many hours at the Edinboro library. His enthusiasm for life was infectious, his laughter echoed in the hearts of all who knew him. 

Peter leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience, forever cherished by his mother, Susan K. Hernquist of Edinboro; his father, Lynn Ray Campbell of Erie; a brother, Tim Hernquist and his wife, Betsy of Brookhaven, GA; a sister, Kari Morse and her husband, William of Hudson, OH; and a multitude of family and friends whose lives he touched with his unwavering spirit. 

Friends may call at the Glunt Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 210 Erie Street, Edinboro, on Thursday, April 18, 2024 from 4 to 7 p.m.  No memorial service will be held.  Burial of ashes will take place in Mitchell Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Down Syndrome Center of Western PA (www.chp.edu/our-services/down-syndrome) or the Collie Health Foundation (www.colliehealth.org), honoring Peter's enduring legacy of love and compassion.

Though Peter may have left this world, his spirit remains eternally vibrant, his memory a guiding light for all who had the privilege of knowing him. Rest in peace, dear Peter, your laughter echoes in our hearts forevermore.