Peter T. Giannuzzi

Peter T. Giannuzzi, 94, of Bayville, NJ, was a man of unwavering strength, loyalty, and devotion, whose life was filled with love and purpose. Surrounded by loving family, Peter, known to friends and family as "Pete," passed away peacefully on April 16, 2025, just five days after celebrating his 94th birthday. Though he is no longer with us, Pete's legacy of resilience, kindness, and warmth will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Pete was predeceased by his beloved wife, Adrienne Giannuzzi (née Cerrito), with whom he shared many cherished years of companionship. His devotion to Adrienne endured long after her passing, as he visited her gravesite every Sunday for three years, which was a touching testament to the deep love they shared. He is survived by his devoted children: John Giannuzzi and his wife, Noreen; Peter Giannuzzi Jr. and his wife, Jeanette; and Lisa Principe and her husband, Frank. He was a proud grandfather to Peter Giannuzzi III, Nicole DeGeorge, Julia Principe, Ariana Giannuzzi, and Sofia Principe, and an adoring great-grandfather to Charlie Mae and Sophie Rae. Pete was especially proud of all his grandchildren, always eager to share their accomplishments and milestones with anyone who would listen. His love for them was immeasurable, and he found great joy in watching them grow and thrive.
Pete is also survived by his dear sister, Mary Giannuzzi; his niece, Laura Patrick; his nephew, Ronald Rosenthal; and his faithful cousins, Diane and Sal Dino. He was predeceased by his older brother, John Giannuzzi, who died tragically in 1950, his cherished nephew, Patrick Scognamilio, who was killed in action in Vietnam, and his beloved sister, Rosalie Rosenthal. Pete was fondly referred to as "Sonny" and "Uncle Sonny" by his mother and family.
Born and raised during the Great Depression in Brooklyn, New York, Pete's early years were shaped by hardship and perseverance. Raised by his single mother, Maria, who supported four children on her own, Pete learned the value and necessity of hard work early in life. The early loss of his older brother, who served as a father figure, forged in him a quiet determination and strength that remained with him throughout his life.
Pete served with great honor in the United States Army during the Korean War, where his courage and determination stood out. As the sole surviving member of his unit after repeated fierce combat, Pete's bravery earned him numerous awards, including the Korean Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars and the Combat Infantryman Badge. His experiences further shaped him into the resilient, quiet man of strength that his family and friends admired throughout his life.
While serving overseas, Pete reconnected with childhood friend Rae Giannuzzi (née DePrisco) through letters that blossomed into a deep and lasting love. Upon returning home, they married and raised three children together. Pete built a successful career in corrugated boxes, a field that appreciated his intelligence and steady work ethic. He eventually moved his family from Brooklyn to Leonia, NJ, where he ensured a stable, safe, and loving environment. Though his marriage to Rae ended after 20 years, they remained close, sharing in the joys of their growing family.
Pete had a natural gift for making friends wherever he went-his warmth and easygoing charm drew people to him throughout his life. While living in Leonia, he and his best friend, Mac, struck up a friendship with actor, Alan Alda. Their connection led to a memorable experience assisting Alda during the making of one of his films. Pete's help was so appreciated that he was included in the film's credits and invited to a celebratory party at Alda's home. There, in a moment he fondly recalled for years, he met and chatted with Dustin Hoffman-a poignant and cherished memory that reflected the many unexpected joys his open heart and kind nature brought into his life.
In 1994, Pete found love again and married Adrienne, his devoted partner of more than three decades. Together, they made their home in Palisades Park before settling in the community of Sonata Bay in Bayville, in 2003. There, Pete became a beloved part of a close-knit community-making friends, sharing laughter, and spreading warmth wherever he went. He and his close friends Joe and Jimmy were like a comedy team, always quick with a joke and a laugh, entertaining everyone around them with their playful banter. He enjoyed his days playing pool, bocce, and poker-always competitive, always fun-loving. Pete and Adrienne loved to host and share their joy with others, particularly during the holidays. Every Christmas, Pete made struffoli and rice pudding from scratch, joyfully gifting it to friends and neighbors. He was always happy to share his delicious rice pudding recipe with friends and family-but you didn't dare say yours turned out better than his. He loved Christmas with his family, cherishing the warmth, the laughter, and the traditions they built together. He often shared stories with friends of the fun times they had playing games, exchanging gifts, and sharing countless laughs. Pete and Adrienne's New Year's Eve parties became a cherished tradition in the neighborhood, filled with food, music, and friendship. Pete also shared a special bond with his cousin Diane, and the two often joked that they were like Abbott and Costello, reliving comical moments and fond memories of their days growing up in Brooklyn. One particularly funny memory involved Diane taking Pete for cataract surgery. Afterward, she mistakenly gave him her glasses instead of his. For the afternoon, Pete was convinced that the surgery had made his condition worse-unaware that he was wearing the wrong glasses!
Pete especially cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren, and he found unique ways to bond with each of them. One of his favorite traditions was teaching his granddaughters how to play poker and blackjack. With a twinkle in his eye and a deck of cards always nearby, Pete patiently passed down his card-playing wisdom-never letting them win too easily, but always cheering them on. These games were filled with laughter, playful banter, and life lessons disguised as strategy tips. His granddaughters treasured these lessons-not just for the games, but for the time spent around the table with their beloved Grandpa, who always made them feel like the luckiest ones at the table.
Pete's service to others extended beyond his family and military. He was a volunteer firefighter and an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the American Legion, forging lifelong bonds with fellow veterans and remaining proud of his service.
In his later years, Pete met health challenges with grace and determination. After undergoing open-heart surgery in 2019 and beginning dialysis for end-stage renal disease, he remained independent and active well into his 90s. When Adrienne was diagnosed with cancer in 2022, he selflessly devoted himself to her care. Even after her passing, Pete continued with strength, never losing his resolve or love for life.
Pete will be remembered for his intelligence, quiet confidence, beautiful smile, and warm spirit. With a commanding presence and a quick wit, he was approachable and full of charm. He was a loyal friend, steadfast, generous, and always willing to lend a hand or a listening ear. Firm in his values and unwavering in his love, Pete's greatest joy was his family-watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow and thrive. Though he faced many hardships and loss, Pete never complained about himself. His strength was quiet and constant, a steady foundation for those around him. He was especially proud to pass on the values that defined him: resilience, kindness, resourcefulness, and a strong work ethic.
Pete's memory will live on in the countless lives he touched with his kindness, generosity, and humor. His legacy is built on the love he gave freely, the sacrifices he made for others, and the deep relationships he fostered. He was a mentor, a protector, and the anchor of his family. As we say goodbye, we take comfort in knowing that Pete's spirit will continue to guide us, and his love will forever remain in our hearts. He leaves behind a legacy of service, dignity, and enduring love-a legacy reflected in the stories we tell, the values we uphold, and the bonds he helped create. He was the rock of his family-their protector, guide, and greatest champion-and he will be deeply missed and forever cherished.
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