Peter H. Cho

Visitation/Reception: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m., Friday, November 22, 2024
Location: Weymouth Funeral Home
Peter H. Cho could not bear the loss of his beloved wife of 61 years. He passed away peacefully on November 6, 2024, to be with Gemma a mere 8 days after her passing, with his family by his side. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Helen (Paul) Fiscella; son and daughter-in-law, Tom (Rebecca) Cho; granddaughters, Caroline Cho, Katie Cho (Charlie Kwon) and Alana Fiscella; and many loving members of his extended family.
The 89 years of his life was a testament to Perseverance and Devotion. From an early age, he was given enormous responsibilities. Peter became the head of his household at 16 when he suffered the loss of his father and older brother during the Korean War. He developed a tremendous work ethic during these years that followed the rest of his life. He served in the Korean Army, owned a lighting fixture shop, operated an oyster farm and took every opportunity to provide for his family. In 1971, he immigrated to the US and established himself as a machinist before bringing his wife and children over the following year. He was excited about all the opportunities that the US offered and soon opened a grocery store in Norfolk, which nearly overwhelmed him. Then he took over a dry-cleaning operation in Newport News and established Cho's Cleaners, enjoying the success and satisfaction he had sought most of his life. Peter believed and lived the American dream.
In his later years, he relished watching his children fulfill their dreams. He offered sage advice through their struggles with his example and his words. Though he had failures and obstacles in his life, he never quit or was a victim of them. He always gave his best, believed that he could make life better and encouraged his children to do the same. Most importantly, he loved his wife, Gemma, steadfastly throughout their life. Together they supported each other and were a testimony of how good life could be despite its struggles. The final years of their lives were spent in happiness as they witnessed their grandchildren grow and thrive. They left this world fully lived and full of Gratitude.
There will be a reception/visitation for family and friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Friday, November 22, 2024 at Weymouth Funeral Home in Newport News. A private family service for both Peter and Gemma for will be held earlier in the day at St. Bede Catholic Church.
The family would like to thank Riverside Hospice for providing compassionate care and guidance during this journey. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made and addressed to Riverside Hospice at https://donatenow.networkforgood.org/riverside. Arrangements by Weymouth Funeral Home.