Peter R. McElhearn

June 30, 1959 – March 17, 2026

Peter “BigMac” McElhearn, of Staten Island, New York, passed away after a long and courageous battle with advanced lung cancer, facing his illness with the same strength, resolve, and dignity that defined his life. Born on June 30, 1959, Pete was a man of honor, chivalry, and boundless selflessness — a steadfast presence for family and friends alike. To know Pete McElhearn was to know that no matter the need or the crisis, he would be there. He was, without question, the person everyone could count on.

Pete was a throwback gentleman in every sense of the expression — worldly, warm, and disarmingly funny. He treated every person he encountered with the same friendliness, respect, and humor, whether they were the CEO of a company or a clerk at the grocery store. It was a quality that was entirely natural to him, and one that left a lasting mark on all who crossed his path. Pete truly lived by the belief that all you have is your name and your word — a principle that shaped everything he did and everyone who knew him understood that about him.

Pete built a distinguished career as a broker before transitioning into the world of IT and communications, yet he never truly left the craft that first defined him professionally. Colleagues and clients knew him as the consummate reliable hand — someone whose word was his bond. Beyond his career, Pete was a devoted student of history and philosophy, endlessly curious about the world and the meaning behind it — you would rarely find him without a book in his hand. He had a deep love of travel, always eager to explore new places and cultures. He had a deep appreciation for fine dining, and in his later years discovered a true passion for cooking, delighting those around him with the same enthusiasm and care he brought to everything in life. A proud New Yorker through and through, Pete was a devoted fan of the Rangers, the Jets, and the Mets — loyalties he wore with passion and pride. His faith and values were the quiet compass that guided everything he did.

Peter is survived by his beloved wife, Vivian; his son, Conor and daughter-in-law, Elina; his grandson, Jamie; his sister, Alicia; and his 12 nieces and nephews. His legacy lives on through each of them, and through the lasting impression he left on all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply and forever missed.