Peter C. Hugues

Peter C. Hugues, age 89, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 29, 2026.

Born in Uniondale, New York, Peter grew up on Long Island, where he built a lifetime of cherished memories. Summers were often spent clamming and crabbing with family, and many joyful days were enjoyed boating—especially aboard the family boat humorously named The Titanic by his beloved wife. Trips to Atlantique Beach remained a favorite tradition.

Peter proudly served his community and country. He was a dedicated volunteer with the Central Islip Ambulance Corps, where he also served as Men’s Auxiliary President. Alongside his beloved wife, Rosemarie, he served as a Youth Advisor for the FirstAiders, mentoring young members who participated in mock disaster competitions across New York State. Together, they also supervised the weekly washing and cleaning of the corps’ two Cadillac ambulances, taking great pride in their service and teamwork.

He served in the United States Army as a pipe fitter with the 697th Engineer Company at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and later spent many years in the New York National Guard. In 1971, he was called to duty during the Attica Prison Riot and was presented with a certificate of recognition for his service.

Peter’s courage and character extended beyond formal service. In one notable act, he came to the aid of a Suffolk County Police Officer neighbor who was being followed, earning a plaque of appreciation for his bravery.

He worked as a United States Postal Service mail carrier for over 15 years before retiring and relocating upstate with his beloved wife, Rosemarie. In his later years, Peter remained active and engaged in his community. He worked at Deer Run Resort in various roles and developed a love for skiing—embracing both the triumphs and the “agony of defeat” with humor and persistence.

Peter also served as head of the kitchen staff at the Allen Residential Center in South Kortright, where he mentored many young people, teaching them valuable skills and work ethic. Even after retiring, he continued to serve others through per diem work as a Youth Division Aide. Additionally, he worked as a security guard at Mallinckrodt Pharmaceutical in Hobart.

He was also the official videographer for the U.S. Theater Players at the First United Methodist Church, a role he truly loved and shared with his family, creating lasting memories through his lens.

Peter found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved bowling, especially attending the Annual Lilac Bowling Tournament in Rochester with friends and his late son-in-law, Stan Smith. He was an avid golfer, especially enjoying rounds with his grandson Andrew, for whom he lovingly crafted a personalized set of golf clubs. He was also an enthusiastic fisherman, never missing the excitement of opening day of trout season each April 1st at 8 a.m., and treasured fishing trips with his grandchildren and son-in-law, Andy Melendez. In his spare time, he lovingly built a dollhouse for his granddaughter Adriane, a reflection of his creativity and devotion to his family.

He was predeceased by his brother, Frank Hugues, and by the love of his life, his wife Rosemarie Hugues, with whom he shared more than 60 wonderful years of marriage before her passing in 2019.

Peter is survived by his loving daughters, Dolores Smith (Stan), Jayme Hugues, and Annamarie Melendez (Andy); his cherished grandchildren, Adriane Bailly (Christopher), Andrew Melendez (Sarah), Peter Hugues-Smith (Chelsea), Nicolas VanBuren, Joseph Simmons, Alyssa Burns (Cody) James Simmons (Jas); and his adored great-grandchildren, Dominic Melendez, Jameson Burns, Olive Burns, Amelia Haff, Evie Smith, Olivia Smith, Clinton Simmons, Jamison Simmons, and Caryn Simmons.

He is also survived by his sister, Barbara Morse (Wayne), and his brothers, Butch, Mike, John, and Vinny.

To his family, he was more than a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather—he was their hero. Peter will be deeply missed and forever loved.

A Celebration of Life will be held later this spring.