"Love Never Dies"
In loving memory of
Peter Grammatico
October 24, 1968 - July 22, 2009
Name: Peter J. Grammatico
Life Dates: 10/24/1968 - 7/22/2009
City Of Birth: Rochester, NY
History
Peter Justin Grammatico of Gates died suddenly on Wednesday, July 22 at the age of 40. He was born on October 24, 1968 in Rochester, NY. He is survived by his wife, Rebecca Case Grammatico, son Justin Michael Grammatico, mother Paula Sheran, father Ben (Fran) Grammatico, and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He touched the lives of everyone he met with his joyful smile and his caring nature.
Donations
Memorial gifts may be made toward the Justin Michael Grammatico Education Fund, 1411 Vintage Lane, Rochester, NY 14626 in Peter's Memory.
Services
BARTOLOMEO PEROTTO Funeral Home Inc., 1411 Vintage Lane (between Rte 390 Long Pond Rd). The family will receive visitors Monday, July 27, 2009 from 4-8 PM. A celebration of Peter's life will take place at Spiritus Christi Church (121 N Fitzhugh Rochester NY), Tuesday, July 28, 2009 at 10:30 AM. Interment will follow in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.
Additional Information
Growing up, Peter lived in Glen Falls, NY; Boston, MA; and Montclair, NJ. As a child, he played Little League and first fell in love with music. Peter attended high school in Belleville, NJ and graduated in 1986. During school, he played drums in the marching band and jazz band, sang tenor in the choir, and helped many other classmates find the joy in music. He also participated in track and field. Peter went to college in Manhattan to be an audio engineer and worked for a few years in New York City. During this time, he played drums in Black Jack, a local band in New Jersey. Several years later, Peter moved to Pittsburgh and enrolled in Slippery Rock University to pursue a music therapy degree.
Through his studies, Peter further developed his musical talent, learning guitar, piano, many other instruments, and focusing on classical vocal music. While at Slippery Rock, he met the love of his life and future wife, Becky. After graduating, the two moved to Rochester to start their life together, close to family and friends.
Peter and Becky celebrated their marriage on September 4, 2004 at the Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum. Surrounded by family and friends, they exchanged vows on a beautiful, sunny day on the shores of Lake Ontario. After their honeymoon in Mexico, they came home to their new house on Appian Drive in Gates, the same home where Peter's grandfather lived and practiced music for decades.
Another one of Peter's passions was cooking--he loved to experiment with different recipes, which were always amazing and delicious. He worked in the restaurant industry since moving to Rochester, most recently as a chef at Rohrbach's restaurant on Buffalo Road. Peter continued performing as a drummer, and began using his vocal talents in a completely different genre--rock. He could be seen around Rochester in local bands Chasing Giants and Stranger. In his spare time, Peter continued to give private music lessons and share his love of music with his students.
In September 2007, Peter and Becky welcomed their son, Justin Michael. Peter was a loving father and enjoyed nothing more than watching his son learn and grow. Peter's warmth, humor, energy, and even his love of music, live on in his beautiful son.
Tributes
"Additional Tribute Link: http://youtu.be/4IPrlZ1Iac0"
"Len Palumbo Relation to Deceased: Friend Peter was one of those people that you just liked from the second you met him. He could always bring light to any situation or be there for a shoulder to lean on. My heart goes out to his entire family. The world will sorely miss a man like Peter. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips"
"Susan Friend Relation to Deceased: High School Friend To Peter's Family & Friends, Peter and I didn't know each other very well in high school, but I remember him as an especially nice person with a fantastic smile and a jovial heart. I am so sad to learn of his passing, but am very glad that he continued on with his music. That was one of our common bonds, and it would've been wonderful to connect with him again in that regard. I'm sorry that I'll never have that chance, but it's evident from the photos and messages that he touched a LOT of lives in a LOT of ways. My deepest condolences to his family, and to those who knew him -- and loved him --for those forty years. - Susan Friend"
"andrea r contestable piazza Relation to Deceased: family friend like a ship at nite your lite beams strong.. i was blessed to have listened to your wonderful song..i remember you as a little guy to see you now I just wonder why..? The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips"
"Claudia Walker Relation to Deceased: Friend Pete, Your beautiful soul is still present in all the memories of your friends and loved ones. It's just beautiful to see how many lives you touched with your love of life. Peace, my friend. My prayers and thoughts go out to Becky, Jason, and the rest of your family. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips"
"Judy A Lepore Relation to Deceased: Friend Dear Peter, The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides"
"Anita and Amadeo Tortorella Relation to Deceased: Aunt and Uncle Paula, Ben, Becky, Lou and Richard, We are so proud of Peter. He was a kind, loving, husband, father, son and nephew. He accomplished so much in his short life; he affected so many people. God grant him rest and peace. He is in our prayers. Aunt Anita and Uncle Amadeo The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips"
"Tom E Caufield Relation to Deceased: Friend The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips"
"Bob and Ginny Napier Relation to Deceased: Friend His gift of music touched so many lives, whether through lessons or performances. He will be truly missed. It was an honor to perform with him via Nik Entertainment. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips"
"ANNEMARIE DELUCA-AUSTIN Relation to Deceased: FRIEND My memory of Peter is just watching him make people laugh in High School. His smile would light up the world. I will miss him dearly. He was a true friend to everyone. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips"
"Dawn M Ziffer Relation to Deceased: High School Friend Wow what can I say about Peter. Will I was new to Belleville my Senior year of High School. I started working at Mickey D's. That is where I first met Peter we worked together. We quickly became friends. He was so kind hearted. He always had a smile on his face. He would walk into a room and the whole room would light up. Peter was someone that you could count on. He always hold a shoulder for you. What ever you needed he would help. I loved watching him and his band after school. Chorus was always a fun place to be. The animal table at lunch was always a fun place to be. God has gotten himself a great muscian to sing his praises now. God Bless you Peter, you will be truly missed by all of us. We all love you, and one day we all shall meet up with you again.Till we meet again my friend. R.I.P."
"Glenn and Andrea Lyn Van Benschoten Relation to Deceased: Friends We can't believe you have left us so soon. You always had a kind word, a warm smile and a love for everyone. You earned your heavenly wings too early, but your spirit truly lives on through all the lives you have touched. God Bless on your journey home...Love, Glenn and Andrea Safely Home I am home in Heaven dear ones: Oh, so happy and so bright! There is perfect joy and beauty in this everlasting light. All the pain and grief is over, every restless tossing passed I am now at peace forever, safely home in Heaven at last. Then you must not grieve so sorely, for I love you dearly still; try to look beyond earth shadows, Pray to trust our Father's will There is work still waiting for you, so you must not idly stand: do it now, while life remaineth you shall rest in Jesus' land When that work is all completed, He will gently call you Home; oh the rapture of that meeting, oh the joy to see you come!"
"Aileen P Millar My heartfelt condolences to Pete's wife and young son. May you find peace at this difficult time. I know all who knew him feel a great loss. He is in our prayers."
"Jean and Dick Grammatico Relation to Deceased: Aunt and Uncle Your love for your family and friends should be a lesson for us all. We have been honored to share in every part of your life and will miss you so much. You will always be in our hearts."
"Joe Chiusano Relation to Deceased: Friend I was good friends with Pete back in the mid-80's in Belleville NJ, where we hung out and played in a band together (I currently live in the Washington DC area). I just learned of Pete's passing today (9/25/09), and was very sorry to learn of it. Though we hadn't spoken in years, I will always cherish the memories of times that I spent with Pete, and our experiences playing on the same stage. May his soul rest in eternal peace. I think no matter where you stray, That I shall go with you a way. Though you may wander sweeter lands, You will not forget my hands, Nor yet the way I held my head Nor the tremulous things I said. You will still see me, small and white And smiling, in the secret night, And feel my arms about you when The day comes fluttering back again. I think, no matter where you be, You'll hold me in your memory And keep my image there without me, By telling later loves about me. Dorothy Parker"
"Tracy Dempsey-Capizzi Relation to Deceased: Friend The world has lost a wonderful person. Peter was a dear close friend throughout high school and afterwards as well. He lit up a room when he entered it. I will always cherish the memories that I have of him. My heart goes out to his family during this difficult time. You were taken much too soon from us Peter. You will always hold a special place with me. Rest my friend... The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips"
"Kathleen Dentino (Berends) I went to school with Peter's Dad,Ben. My Prayers are with you all. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips"
"Nancy Lepore Capra Relation to Deceased: Friend Peter came into my life at the wee age of 15. I knew the minute I met him that he was no ordinary guy. He will always hold a special place in my heart and the memories of him forever fill my mind. I love you, Peter... and I will miss your beautiful smile and laugh. Rest in peace my friend."
"louis curcione Peter was a hell of a nice guy in BHS. Regina and I feel honored to contribute to his sons fund. So nice to know you Peter."
"Victoria A Hobson-Kielman Relation to Deceased: friend/husband's best man Becky and family, I met Peter when he was the lead singer in the band Tom Foolery with my husband Mark. Peter befriended me right away, because that's the kind of person he was, full of lovingkindess. He always had a way of making me smile, especially when I felt frustrated about things. Often times he would sit me down and say, look, don't worry about what others think or how they act! Just do what you feel is right in your heart and let the rest go. Mark and I were honored to have him as best man and best friend at our wedding. Even though we didn't keep in touch, Peter was always in our hearts. There is no doubt Peter was a positive and loving influence in the lives of everyone he met. His presence on Earth will be missed but his spirit will definitely live on forever in all of us. God bless! The butterfly emerges"
"Judy A Lepore Relation to Deceased: Friend Dear Peter The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips"
"Ken Brucato My friend, we go back to 7th grade, eating Lunch together at the Junior high. through out high school and beyond our friendship was always a constant, although we did not speak every day, every week, or even every year, we understood the friendship was their. In this modern day of technology, we kept tabs on each others lives via E-mail, Facebook, ect. I always thought we had many more years of face to face contact. Now, sadly, that will never be, But my friend we will still continue to talk, in my thought, prayers, and memories you and I will still laugh, and joke. until one day we will sit at the lunch table again."
"Dominick N Mastro Relation to Deceased: friend Though the years had passed us by way too fast you were never far from my thoughts and heart. Always there to make a bad situation into a good one, you are an incredible man. I only wish we had stayed as tight as back in the day. It started in 8th grade basketball and grew from there. To me you will always be PG!! The mystical singer/drummer, or was it drummer/singer, who had a gentle way about him. You will be missed my old friend To your wife and son, as well as the rest of your family, I am truly sorry for your loss. I can not begin to comprehend the loss and I know words are of no comfort now. Pete was one of the great people in the world and we all are diminished by his not being here. Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal. ~From a headstone in Ireland He was a man, take him for all in all, I shall not look upon his like again - William Shakespeare The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips"
"Regina Bliss Relation to Deceased: highschool friend Peter was handsome, sweet, loved music and kind to everyone in HS. What I remember about him the most was how close friends he and AJ Betta were. Thicker than thieves actually. Always laughing and hanging out together. How lucky they were to have such a special friendship. God Bless you Peter. Regina"
"Dominick N Mastro Relation to Deceased: Friend Though the years had passed us by way too fast you were never far from my thoughts and heart. Always there to make a bad situation into a good one, you are an incredible man. I only wish we had stayed as tight as back in the day. It started in 8th grade basketball and grew from there. To me you will always be PG!! The mystical singer/drummer, or was it drummer/singer, who had a gentle way about him. You will be missed my old friend To your wife and son, as well as the rest of your family, I am truly sorry for your loss. I can not begin to comprehend the loss and I know words are of no comfort now. Pete was one of the great people in the world and we all are diminished by his not being here. Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal. ~From a headstone in Ireland He was a man, take him for all in all, I shall not look upon his like again - William Shakespeare The celebration of life, shared in the beginning, and again, in the end. Yet we forget to celebrate it, in every moment we live. Time, days, years, go on, but are we alive? Alive and do not know it, sleeping in the world and dead to the life we are to live. To celebrate all life, the sparrow who sang in the morning, and died in the night, why do we not celebrate its life? To know thyself is to know you are alive - to give, to love, to seek truth, beauty, and suffer pain. In life as it is meant to be, pain is forgotten, and strength is all that's left to be gained in the moment by moment celebration of life. By Deborah Peabody"
"AJ Betta Relation to Deceased: Brother Peter, I love you man. I miss you so much. All the memories keep flooding back to me of all the good times we had together. We went through thick and thin, good and bad, happy and sad together. It was a helluva ride and the only thing I would change is the ending my friend. You were taken from so many so much too soon. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips"
"Public Memorial for Peter J. Grammatico"
"Jake Hansen Relation to Deceased: musician friend So many pleasant memories will be cherished forever even though our time together was brief. I was privileged to play keyboards behind your powerful voice and honored to call you my friend. If we would go awhile without staying in touch you would always feel sorry and say how important our friendship was. I have a feeling you made everyone feel that important. Becky and Justin, Paula and Ben, and all the family, may God bless your hearts with comfort and peace. Be proud of Peter, a man of incomparable goodness, strength and character."