Peter Schiffenhaus

Peter Robert Schiffenhaus, 62, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.

Peter was born and raised in Montclair, New Jersey, a place that remained close to his heart throughout his life. He was the son of Larry and Betty Schiffenhaus, whose love and guidance helped shape the man he became. Peter also shared a close bond with his siblings—Chip, Mary Ann, Betsy, Peggy, Patty, and Mark—and treasured the many memories they created together over the years.

He attended Montclair Kimberley Academy and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in Business and Economics from Saint Anselm College. Peter built a successful career as a respected sales professional in the packaging industry, where he was known for his integrity, dedication, and ability to build lasting relationships.

Above all else, Peter’s greatest passion was his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Maggie, and his two sons, Peter Jr. and William, who were the center of his world. Peter met Maggie in San Francisco in 1989, where their shared love of the outdoors immediately drew them together. They married in wine country and spent their first twelve years in California, where both Peter Jr. and William were born. He was a devoted husband and father—always present, supportive, and proud.

Athletics were a cornerstone of Peter's life, and he found great joy in both competition and exercise. His favorite sports were hockey and lacrosse; he excelled at each in high school, helping MKA hockey win a Gordon Cup and the lacrosse team secure a state title. He went on to be a star face-off man and midfielder for the San Francisco and Marin Lacrosse Clubs, teams that provided him a brotherhood of lifelong friends. In later years, Peter devoted himself to coaching his sons and the Montclair youth community, whether through Montclair Lacrosse or Montclair Blues hockey. Peter and Maggie never missed their children's competitions, from town league scrimmages to Navy lacrosse games. Peter also loved his men’s league hockey team, a group of cherished friends who skated, occasionally drank, and traveled to amazing places together. A longtime member of Montclair Golf Club, Peter was an avid tennis player and golfer—sports that reflected both his skill and his love of camaraderie. He remained committed to daily workouts and a healthy lifestyle.

Peter spent every summer of his youth on Cape Cod, a place where he held special memories with family and dear friends. He also spent many months in Santa Cruz, where he loved surfing alongside his sons and his great friend, Neill.

Peter had a green thumb and a true talent for cooking. He enjoyed growing fresh vegetables, whether for canning tomatoes and pickles or sourcing ingredients for the delicious meals he prepared. Cooking for his family was one of the many ways he expressed his love.

Peter will be remembered for his witty humor, contagious laughter, and genuine kindness. Though he left us far too soon, we will all continue to be inspired by him to be our best in everything we do.

A memorial service to celebrate Peter’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on May 14, 2026, at Immaculate Conception Church in Montclair, NJ. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations in his memory to Montclair Lacrosse, Clary Anderson Arena, The Surfrider Foundation, or The American Cancer Society.