Peter Karl Kresge, known affectionately as Pete to his family and friends, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2024, in Hagerstown, Maryland, at the age of 75. Born on December 5, 1948, in Schenectady, New York, Pete was a beacon of light in the lives of all who knew him.

Pete graduated from South Hagerstown High School and went on to earn a BA in Economics from Dickinson College. His education paved the way for a successful career beginning as Commercial Lines Underwriter with Royal Globe Insurance and he retired as a Commercial Lines Insurance Agent from J Edward Cochran/Blue Ridge Risk Partners after many years of dedicated service to the insurance industry. Pete's professional life was marked by his wise counsel and generous spirit, which earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and clients alike.

Pete served in the US Army Reserves, 357th Transportation Co, in Greencastle, PA, from 1970 to 1976. He was a member of the United Methodist Men's organization and he was president of the Hagerstown Investment club.

Outside of work, Pete's passions were many and varied. He was an avid baseball fan, with an unwavering loyalty to the Pittsburgh Pirates, and he also held a deep affection for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Golf was another of Pete's favorite pastimes, and he could often be found on the green, enjoying a game with his close friends. Travel was another joy in his life, and Pete and Iris' adventures took him to many beautiful places, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Music from the 1960s held a special place in Pete's heart, and he loved nothing more than sharing this passion with his family. His kindness and generosity extended to every aspect of his life, and he was always ready with a wise word or a helping hand for anyone in need.

Pete's greatest love, however, was for his family. He was born to the late Walter Karl and Elizabeth "Doris" (Griffiths) Kresge. He was preceded in death by his sister Patricia Castle in February of 2020. He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Iris Kresge; his son Jonathan and daughter-in-law Katie; his cherished grandchildren, Makenzie, Jacob, and Robert; his adored great-grandchildren, Bjorn and Bronwyn; his sister-in-law, Linda Kayser; and his nieces and nephews, Christopher and Melissa Kayser, Michael Castle, Deanna Jezek, and Christy Stover. Pete's role as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and uncle was the one he cherished most, and his wisdom, kindness, and generosity will be his lasting legacy in the hearts of his family.

As we remember Pete, we reflect on the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." Pete's life was indeed a testament to this sentiment, as he touched the lives of many with his warmth and benevolence.

Pete was a longtime member of the United Methodist Church and in his later years, he attended Bethel United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the St Jude's Children's Hospital or Bethel United Methodist Church in Chewsville, MD.

Pete Kresge will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of kindness, generosity, and love will continue to inspire those he has left behind. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we take comfort in the countless happy memories he has given us, and the knowledge that his spirit will live on through the lives of those he loved.

The funeral service will be held at 11am, Tuesday, April 2, 2024, with Pastor Jim Johnson to officiate, at Minnich Funeral Home, 415 E. Wilson Blvd., Hagerstown, MD. Burial will be in Rest Haven Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.