Mr. Peter Contento

July 26, 1946 - April 2, 2021

Peter Contento, 74 yrs. old passed away on Good Friday, 4/2/2021 surrounded by his family at home. Peter loved his family and cherished their time spent together gathered around the table eating, talking, laughing, telling stories, and playing cards. There was always room at the Contento Table for family and friends. Peter was a true “Dog Whisperer” who bred and raised many dogs throughout his life. His first Springer Spaniel- Gabilan of Lake Como or “Gabby” won many ribbons at the Field Trials they attended. He owned and hunted with German Wire Haired Pointers and trained his Wire Haired Dachshund; “Jack” to track and find deer. Jack and Pete were inseparable. Peter lived life to the fullest. He was an exceptional craftsman and avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, golfing, and time spent with his family at “The Point”. He was always ready for an adventure be it in his backyard, on local waterways, on Sanibell Island, or in Alaskan waters. His career spanned 30+ years at Homer Senior High School where he was a Global Studies Teacher and so much more. During his tenure he taught and nurtured countless students and advocated for teachers by being Department Chair and HTA President. He also started a lacrosse club and worked diligently to make it Varsity status, all of the young men on his Team still call him “Coach”. He leaves to cherish his memory; Cheryl his wife of 51 years, his son; Paul (& wife Liz Proctor Contento), daughter; Carrie (& husband Brendan Rew) and grandson; Dorian, sister; Elaine Contento; sister in laws; Judi Wilkins, Kathy Coggi and their families, along with many relatives and friends. Peter was predeceased by his parents; Rose and Victor Contento, infant son; Anthony, in laws; Benjamin and Josephine Robbins, and brother in laws; Thomas Wilkins and Gerald Coggi. In keeping with his wishes there will be no formal funeral services. Peter requested his family and friends gather one more time to eat and enjoy each others company. A celebration of his life will be planned for later this year. Contributions may be made to the charity of ones choice in Peters name. Peter’s family would like to thank the doctors who cared for him through this difficult time. Hospice of Central New York and The Finger Lakes Region provided compassionate care during the remaining days of his life. Arrangements under the direction of Riccardi Funeral Home, Cortland, N.Y. www.riccardifuneralhome.com