Obituary of Peter Byer

Peter Byer, 70, of Manasquan, NJ, passed away peacefully on 12/31/25 at his home.

Peter Byer was born on June 20th, 1955 in Orange, NJ to Willard and Dorothy Byer. After graduating from Seton Hall Prep, Montclair State University, and Seton Hall Law School, Pete went on to pursue a career as an attorney, beginning as a prosecutor in New York City before transitioning to work at several large financial institutions. His career concluded as a writer, including the publication of a novel.

Outside of work, Pete was an avid athlete, playing football throughout his time at Seton Hall Prep and Montclair State University before transitioning to rugby, where in his first year at law school he was named Rookie of the Year for the Montclair Rugby Club. He completed multiple New York City marathons as well. His interest in sports was passed on to his children as he coached multiple children’s soccer teams and spent countless hours ferrying children across New Jersey for their various sporting events.

Pete was a devoted husband to Mary Anne Byer (née Bunkle) and a loving parent to Kerrie, Matthew, Timothy and Molly as well as his daughters-in-law Mary Catherine and Deena. He was a brother to Mary Jean Chiocca, Willard, and Robert. He is also survived by grandchildren Jack and Maeve Byer, with his son Timothy and his daughter in law Deena expecting another grandchild. He was preceded in death by his wife Mary, son-in-law Brian Wren and his parents.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, January 8th from 3:00 - 7:00 PM, at Dangler’s Funeral home 340 Main Street, West Orange, NJ 07052

His funeral service will be held on Friday, January 9th at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 1 Eagle Rock Ave, West Orange, NJ 07052

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Brian L. Rogers Memorial Scholarship Fund. This organization is run by the family of Pete’s daughter-in-law to establish a scholarship for under-privileged young men to attend his beloved Seton Hall Preparatory School. Seton Hall Preparatory School, 120 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052

Pete will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and his memory will live on in the hearts of his children, their families, his siblings, and all his family and friends who got to spend time with him.

Full notice will follow