Peter Robert Schiffenhaus passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones. He was 62. Peter was born and raised in Montclair, New Jersey, a place that remained close to his heart throughout his life.
He was the son of Larry and Betty Schiffenhaus, whose love and guidance helped shape the man he became. Peter also shared a close bond with his siblings—Chip, Mary Ann, Betsy, Peggy, Patty, and Mark—and treasured the many memories they created together over the years.
Peter built a successful career as a respected sales professional in the packaging industry, where he was known for his integrity, dedication, and ability to build lasting relationships. In his early days after graduation from college, he worked for Viking Container and Golden Bear Packaging in the San Francisco area, before joining the family box business at Schiffenhaus Industries in New Jersey. After the family sold the box business, he built a successful sales career with Rock Tenn and then on to Smurfit Westrock.
Above all else, Peter’s greatest passion was his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Maggie, and his two sons, Peter Jr. and William, who were the center of his world. Peter met Maggie in San Francisco in 1989, where their shared love of the outdoors immediately drew them together. They married in wine country and spent their first twelve years in California, where both Peter Jr. and William were born. He was a devoted husband and father— always present, supportive, and proud.
Athletics were a cornerstone of Peter’s life, and he found great joy in both competition and exercise. His favorite sports were hockey and lacrosse and he was a longtime member of Montclair Golf Club, where Peter was an avid tennis player and golfer—sports that reflected both his skill and his love of camaraderie. He remained committed to daily workouts and a healthy lifestyle. Peter spent every summer of his youth on Cape Cod, a place where he held special memories with family and dear friends.
He spent many months in Santa Cruz over the last couple of decades, where he loved surfing alongside his sons. Peter also had a green thumb and a true talent for cooking. He enjoyed growing fresh vegetables, whether for canning tomatoes and pickles or sourcing ingredients for the delicious meals he prepared. Peter will be remembered for his witty humor, contagious laughter, and genuine kindness.
The family encourages donations in his memory to Montclair Lacrosse, Clary Anderson Arena, The Surfrider Foundation, or The American Cancer Society.
