Peter Wilson

Peter Wilson – Auckland, New Zealand and Delran NJ 12/7/48 to 4/12/14

A committed family man, his wife and children always came first. Grilling up some lamb chops or having dinner in front of the fireplace was Pete’s formula for happiness. His name was symbolic of the rock he was for his family. A true, old fashioned gentleman. He was a genuine man of integrity. Known for his good nature, his “G’day Mate” won people over quickly. He was always visible on the sidelines of his sons’ sporting events, you may have heard his distinctive voice announce for the Riverdel Swim Team.

Growing up in Auckland, Pete was a natural sailor and outdoorsman. He owned boats as a child the way kids here own bikes. His passion – along with sailing – was rugby. The ”All Blacks” being his lifelong favorite.

After receiving his degree in Engineering from Auckland University and additional Engineering certificates, his love of people and relationships made him realize he was more suited for sales. That change in careers is what brought him to the US where he would make his new home.

Peter and Kass became best friends while working for the same company in San Diego. Their friendship turned to romance over the 4th of July and they eloped that August. The “whirlwind romance” was still going strong 23 years later.

He followed her back to Delran from California to raise his family and became an avid Philly sports fan without ever losing his passion for his NZ roots. In addition to watching his favorite Philly teams lose, he watched competitive sailing and the All Blacks play rugby whenever possible. He considered himself “Irish by marriage” and adored his Irish in-laws and nieces and nephews.

Peter was preceded in death by his beautiful daughter Kristin. His son Mark (Carla) live happily in Florida and attending their wedding was one of the greatest joys of his life.

Peter is survived by his love and soulmate Kass and their three sons: Kelly Ray, Tristan Thomas and Kieran Christopher.

He also leaves behind his New Zealand family – his brother Kit (Marie) and his NZ nieces and nephews.

Come celebrate Pete’s legacy of life and love on Friday from 11-1 at Sweeney Funeral Home in Riverside. In lieu of flowers, the family has set up a Memorial fund for Pete’s boys and ask that donations be made to the Peter Wilson Memorial Family Fund.