Peter Wolfe
Alton | Save
Peter G. Wolfe, 79, passed away on Friday, July 3rd, 2026, at Alton Memorial Hospital. Born February 1, 1947, in Alton, he was the son of Warren and Barbara (Hiscock) Wolfe. Pete married Alice Pauline Berkel on April 15, 1970, in Alton. Together they shared 56 years of marriage. A 1965 graduate of Alton High School, he served his country in the U.S. Army from 1966 – 1968. He worked as an operator for Owens-Illinois Glassworks and later as a draftsman for Emerson Electric and with McDonnell Douglas in St, Louis.
Pete loved the outdoors. He was an avid waterfowler, bass, and catfish angler who found his greatest joy on the water. Spending time fishing with his family, closest friends and most of all his sons, creating lifelong memories and forging an enduring bond, was one of his life's greatest passions. Together, they shared countless hours on lakes and rivers, making memories that will be treasured forever. Among his favorite bass fishing destinations were Toledo Bend Reservoir in Texas and Kinkaid Lake in Illinois. When it came to catfishing, nothing compared to the mighty Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, where he felt most at home.
His passion for waterfowl hunting began at an early age on Calhoun Point, near the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. It was there that he developed a lifelong love of sport. However, it was Carlyle Lake in Illinois that became his true waterfowling home. Also known for his handmade decoys crafted out of decoy unlimited molds. Every mold packed, every decoy sanded, hand painted and even balanced to his liking so they would ride more lifelike in the water. Among his blind partners and even his friendly rivals he earned the nickname "Leatherlung." He was legendary for his powerful, ringing highballs, calls so strong they were said to rattle coffee cups in the blind and pull mallards from the heavens. The marshes of Carlyle Lake were where he felt most at home, surrounded by lifelong friends, unforgettable hunts, and the traditions he cherished most.
He was a talented and accomplished woodworker who spent countless hours in his workshop designing, building, and restoring tables, cabinets, dressers, chairs, wooden clocks, and jewelry boxes. There seemed to be no project beyond his skill or determination—if he put his mind to it, he could bring it to life with craftsmanship and care. Among his most cherished creations were custom wooden urns for beloved pets, each thoughtfully designed to display a treasured photograph. These heartfelt pieces became lasting keepsakes, lovingly crafted and gifted to close friends and family over the years, reflecting both his remarkable talent and his generous spirit.
In his later years, he discovered a new passion for online video games, especially role-playing games that challenged him to build and develop unique characters. True to his nature, he approached gaming with the same dedication and attention to detail that he brought to every hobby. Shelves were filled with strategy guides covered in his handwritten notes, alongside countless legal pads packed with carefully organized ideas, character builds, and game plans. It often brought a smile to people's faces when they asked, "How's your dad doing?" The answer was frequently, "He's at home playing video games." The thought of a man in his seventies enthusiastically immersed in his virtual adventures was both surprising and endearingly comical. Yet, for those who knew him best, it was simply another example of his lifelong curiosity, sharp mind, and willingness to embrace new passions, no matter his age.
Although he had many hobbies and passions, his one true love was spending time with his family and his sons' families, no matter how large or extended the gathering became. The holidays were some of his favorite times of the year, especially Christmas. He made sure that everyone had a gift to open, whether they were family by blood, by marriage, or newly welcomed into the family. His greatest joy came from seeing the smiles and happiness he brought to those he loved. A loving father, gentle and kind, what beautiful memories he leaves behind. Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we find comfort in knowing his love will remain with us always. May he now find eternal rest and everlasting peace.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by three sons, Mathew (wife Kari) Wolfe, Justin (wife Shannon) Wolfe, and Travis (wife Angela) Wolfe; his grandchildren, Zachary, Andrew (Summer), Maddox and Ledger; and great grandchildren Luke, Ella, and Elsa; as well as a brother, Terry Wolfe. Though many cousins lived in the Champaign, Illinois area, they were never far from his heart or his thoughts.
He will be laid to rest at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, surrounded by his loving family.
Professional services entrusted to Paynic Home for Funerals, with an online guestbook available at www.paynicfh.com.
Paynic Home for Funerals
