Peter Howard Gerber

With deep sadness, we mourn the passing of Peter Howard Gerber, age 78. Peter was born June 8, 1947, in Middletown, New York. He passed away on July 27, 2025. He spent his entire life in Middletown, growing up in the family home, and working locally at the State Hospital. It is noteworthy that Pete lived in the family home for his entire life. He is survived by his "older" brother, Richard Gerber, of California. Pete delighted in teasing Richard about being the older brother, often telling him "When you turn 75, you are old". When Pete turned 75, Richard called and started the conversation with "you are officially old". After Richard joined the service and settled in California, Pete drove across the United States, not once, but twice, to visit his brother. He was a very private man but had many friends. There were two friends that he mentioned often, Wrangler and Jean. Wrangler worked with Pete at the State Hospital, and they became the best of friends. Wrangler shared that when she and Pete were seen together, folks referred to them as Ma and Pa Kettle. This friendship was very important to him. Pete was fortunate to have another friend, Jean. He was welcomed into Jean's family and the younger members of the family thought of him as an uncle. After Jean passed away unexpectedly, her sister, Linda and the extended family, continued to welcome Pete as part of the family. Pete spent at least one evening per week at Linda's home having dinner with the family. "He's just always been here." He was a regular at the Colonial Diner, always sitting at the same table and always ordering the same omelet and fried potatoes. "Breakfast, lunch or dinner, he always ordered the same meal". The diner provided, not only good food, but good company for Pete. Goodbye, dear Pete. We miss you already. We will gather at the graveside for internment and to say goodbye to Peter. Friends are welcome. Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 11:00 Howells Cemetery, 230 New Vernon Rd, Mount Hope, New York, 10940