Peter, age 60, passed away at Jersey City Medical Center on Friday, April 3rd. Born and raised in the Ironbound section of Newark, N.J., he attended St. Benedict's grammar school. He went to high school at East Side High School in Newark, Class of 1977. Peter went on to Lincoln Technical Institute to obtain certifications in HVAC and auto mechanic and repair.
Peter enjoyed successful careers as an HVAC mechanic at John Duffy Oil, as a technician then manager of a Midas Muffler Branch and as an instructor at Lincoln Technical Institute where he was effective at sharing his real world experience with his students.
Peter cherished his wife Laurie and became a doting caretaker of their family of felines. He also enjoyed being with friends and family. Always curious and generous, he would gladly start conversations with those he did not know and often ended up offering help to those in need. Peter was an avid fisherman who spent many days on a boat fishing for blues, fluke and stripers off the Jersey coast. Later in life, Peter found inspiration and embraced the learnings of Torah Observant Christians. As was usual with his interests, Peter immersed himself in this pursuit.
Predeceased by his parents, Edward and Helen Staugaitis, and his eldest brother, John Kozic, and his sister, Dr. Susan Staugaitis. Peter is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Laurie (Haerle) Staugaitis of Secaucus, his brother, Joe Kozic of Navesink, N.J.; brother, Tom Staugaitis and his wife, Janice Staugaitis, of Green Brook, N.J. He is also survived by five nieces and nephews, and nine grand-nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be planned for a later date.
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