Peter Paul Pape, of Pine Street, Punxsutawney, passed away April 9, 2025, at Christ the King Manor in DuBois. Pete was born February 23, 1937 to the late Louis and Anna (Galletti) Pape. He married Rachel Gigliotti on October 29, 1955. She preceded him in death on March 23, 1983. Together they raised six children: Patricia (Jim) Murdock, Mary Lou (Frank) Stockdale, Michele (Damon) Wehrli, Paul J. Pape, Angela (Dave) Cesario, Julie Pape all of whom survive. He is also survived by six grandchildren Ryan Murdock, Nicole (David) Perchinsky, Adam (Megan) Murdock, Franklin and Marisa Stockdale, Angelo G. Pape and one great-granddaughter Lennox Murdock.
Pete was always on the go and worked hard to support his family. He had fond memories of his early days working for Fleck’s Beveridge and Brown’s Boot Shop. He later was employed by Kraft Foods as a salesman and retired after a 33-year career as an insurance agent with Metropolitan Life. Pete and his late wife Rachel were the owners of Pape’s Beer Distributor and carried on the legacy of Pape’s Horseradish.
He later married Elaine Venesky on February 27, 1987, who survives. After retirement, Pete and Elaine wintered in Florida, where they enjoyed going to flea markets, taking trips, Saturday night dances, and visiting with their Floridian friends. Pete had many hobbies, including golfing, roasting peanuts, going on walks, and tinkering at his rental properties. Though his absolute favorite activities centered around spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter.
Pete loved his hometown of Punxsutawney and was very proud to be an instrumental part of the community. As a 63-year member of the Lindsey Fire Department, he held the offices of President and Chaplin and he was the Chairman of the committee for the building of the new Lindsey Fire Hall. Pete served 28 years on the Punxsutawney Borough Council where he held the office of President for 15 years. During his time on the council he was instrumental on many projects that benefited our community. He also spearheaded the project for the Snowflakes light that hang throughout the town. Pete was active in local politics serving as Democratic Chairman of Jefferson County for many years.
Pete was very devoted to his faith. He was a lifelong member of Saints Cosmas and Damian Church where he was a Lector, Eucharistic Minister and Altar Server for daily Mass and Funerals. He was actively involved with the Knights of Columbus where he served as the Grand Knight for several years and the Color Corps Commander.
In addition to his parents and his wife Rachel, he was preceded in death by his sisters Frances Stojek and Concetta Pape and his brothers Rocco and Carmen Pape. He was the last surviving member of his family.
Family and friends will be received on Sunday, April 13, 2025, from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm and Monday April 14, 2025, from 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm at the McCabe Funeral Home, 114 Maple Avenue Punxsutawney. A funeral Mass will be Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at 11:00 am at Saints Cosmas and Damian Roman Catholic Church with Co-Celebrants Monsignor Riccardo and Monsignor Kaza.
Memorial donations may be made to Lindsey Fire Department and SSCD School.
Comments