Peter Junior Pluger

Peter was born on May 18, 1953, in McBain, Michigan, to Theresa and Peter Pluger. Raised on a dairy farm, Peter learned early the values of hard work, perseverance, and determination, qualities that shaped him throughout his life. He later left McBain to attend Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he met the love of his life and future wife, Barbara.

After graduating, Peter traveled across the country working as a salesman for several companies, including Campbell’s Soup, Black & Decker, Star Expansions, Shepherd Casters, and American Safety Razor in Verona, Virginia, where he completed his career after more than ten years of service.

In his spare time, Peter found great joy in gardening and was known for his abundant vegetable harvests. No one ever left his home during harvest season without a grocery bag overflowing with fresh produce. He was a talented baseball and basketball player, an avid golfer, and loved spending time outdoors. Peter especially enjoyed working with his hands on various projects and ending his days by the hearth, where a fire was almost always burning if there was even the slightest chill in the air, and sometimes even when there wasn’t.

In addition to his parents, Peter was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Buzz Van Iterson.

Peter is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Barbara Pluger of Staunton; his four children, Jennifer Pluger (Daris) of Staunton, Benjamin Pluger (Kable) of Crozet, Paul Pluger (Emily) of Denver, North Carolina, and Leah Bell (Matthew) of San Antonio, Texas. He is also survived by his nine cherished grandchildren: Olivia, Parker, Thomas, Penelope, Madilyn, Avery, Carson and Emery; his four sisters, Betty Berens (Ray), Lois Van Iterson, Angie Ploegstra (Joel), and Harriet Halladay (Chuck); and his special canine companions, Lexi and Missy.

Following cremation, the family will hold a Celebration of Life service in the spring.

Relatives and friends may share condolences and memories with the family online at www.reynoldshamrickfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Staunton Chapel of Reynolds Hamrick Funeral Homes.