Peter Alan Gehrke
January 12, 1947 - May 25, 2025
Peter Alan Gehrke, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully in New Jersey, on May 25, 2025, at 78. Born on January 12, 1947, in Newark, NJ, Peter was the cherished son of Peter and Evelyn Gehrke. Married to his beloved Meredith Martindale Gehrke for 56 joyful years, Peter leaves behind their son, Jeremy Gehrke; his wife, Meghan Gehrke; and grandchildren, Cecilia, Landon, and Charles; in addition to brother, John Gehrke and wife, Elizabeth; sister, Nancy Spidell and husband, Bruce; and his nieces and nephew.
He graduated from Chatham High School in 1965 and earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Waynesburg University in 1969. During his college years, Peter was an active member of Delta Sigma Phi and the honorary business fraternity Alpha Sigma Phi.
Peter's professional career was distinguished by dedication, working as an accountant for Haskins and Sells (Deloitte) in Manhattan, prior to his 34-year tenure as a Senior Team Coordinator with the IRS.
Having resided in Chatham, NJ, for 60 years, he later divided his time between Ocean City, NJ, and Boynton Beach, FL, for over 11 years. His contributions to the community were numerous, including coaching soccer and baseball, serving his church, and holding roles such as ordained Deacon and Elder Moderator at Chatham Presbyterian Church. He also served as president of the Chatham United Way and several golf leagues.
An enthusiastic sportsman, Peter was a member of the Chatham Minisink Club and various country clubs, loved playing golf and tennis, and was an ardent supporter of the New York Yankees and Giants. His love for travel allowed him to experience diverse cultures worldwide.
Peter's life was filled with love for his family and gratitude for God's blessings. We will miss his warmth, love, personality, and uncanny ability to make people laugh.
A Service of Memory and Love will be offered Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at 12 p.m., at St. Peter's United Methodist Church, 8th Street at Central Avenue, Ocean City, NJ, where friends may visit with the family from 11 a.m. until time of service.
For condolences to the family, visit
www.godfreyfuneralhome.com.
The Godfrey Funeral Home of Ocean City
809 Central Ave., Ocean City, NJ 08226
Published by The Press of Atlantic City on May 31, 2025.