Peter Diefenbach of Beach Lake, Pa., died Feb. 10, 2011. He was 59. Originally a premed major in the Class of ’73, Peter graduated with a degree in French literature in 1974.
Classmates may recall that Peter adopted a pug puppy, Boris. As he walked around campus with the dog, co-eds stopped to flirt and show their affection for Boris. Former roommate Andy Wallin ’73 noted, “Of all the fellows in our group in The Pit (his freshman suite in the basement of Hamilton Hall), Peter was by far the most popular and truly loved. He was always laughing, always had a smile. He was a gentleman in the classic sense.”
After graduation, Peter worked in the restaurant business in New York City. Beginning in 1983, he worked as a master carpenter, and his work was exhibited in Architectural Digest, Hampton Style magazine, and other publications. Always varied and ingenious, Peter held several patents, enjoyed sailing, cooking, and traveling, but above all was a car enthusiast.
Foremost, Peter was a wonderful husband and father. He is survived by his beloved family: Carol, his wife of 31 years; and his children, Christopher Michael, Peter Brandon, and Laura Jean.