Obituary of Peter Syracuse

Peter John Syracuse, 75, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Fallsview Nursing Facility in Boonton, NJ.

Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to the late Emmanuel and Agnes (Gargano) Syracuse, Peter spent his early childhood in the Southwest before his family relocated to Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. The move allowed his brother, Francis, to receive specialized medical care in Manhattan. The family eventually settled in Rockaway, NJ, where Peter remained a lifelong resident.

Peter answered the call of duty by enlisting in the U.S. Army at the onset of the Vietnam War, later receiving a medical discharge.

A man of deep curiosity and conversation, Peter was a true student of history. He was an avid World War II buff and stayed meticulously up-to-date on current events. He also found great joy in the Golden Age of cinema, spending many hours reminiscing about and watching the legendary stars of old Hollywood.

Peter was predeceased by his parents, Emmanuel (Manny) and Agnes; his brother, Francis; and his dear friend, Jeff. He was also preceded in death by his uncle Peter Gargano, who died in battle during World War II, his aunt Rose (Gargano) Freeland, his uncle Louis P. Gargano, and his cousin John L. Gargano.

He is survived by his loving cousins: Peter Charles Freeland, Daniel Freeland, Gerald Gargano, Camille (Gargano) Karatka, Mary Anne (Gargano) Lewis, Joan (Gargano) Grasso, Theresa (Gargano) Kendall, and Russell Syracuse.

A graveside service and interment will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, May 4, 2026, at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, East Hanover, N.J. Peter’s ashes will be interred alongside his beloved parents and his brother, Francis, who passed away in 1971.

Arrangements are under the care of Dangler Lewis and Carey Funeral Home, Boonton, NJ.