Peter "Pete" Canton passed away on July 9, 2026, at the grand old age of 87.

Born on March 29, 1939, in Frankfurt, Germany, just five months before the outbreak of World War II, Pete's life began amidst one of history's most turbulent periods. History became a lifelong passion, and his experiences inspired countless stories that he eventually shared through several published books.

Pete survived the war despite several close calls and treasured the time he spent with his grandmothers, his mother, and his best friend and younger brother, Joseph. At a young age, he learned one of life's most important lessons: family was everything. Seeking a better future for her children, Pete's mother, Lilo, remarried an American and moved herself and her two sons to New York City when Pete was 13 years old.

Although New York City was initially a culture shock, Pete adapted quickly and embraced his new life. He aspired to become an artist, but those plans changed abruptly when a sudden move to Chicago during his senior year of high school caused him to lose his scholarship. Determined to take control of his future, Pete joined the United States Air Force shortly after graduating from high school and served honorably for five years.

His life came full circle when he was stationed in Germany for the final three years of his service. There, he reconnected with his father, Louie, and his younger brothers, Michael and Thomas. During his time in Germany, Pete learned computer operations and became a keypunch operator, a skill that launched a successful career in information technology. He worked for several banks before joining The New York Times, where he spent more than 25 years and eventually retired.

After returning from the Air Force, Pete settled in New York City. At the age of 28, he married and became the proud father of two children, Christine Dombek and Richard Canton.

Following a robbery at their home in Elmhurst, Queens, Pete decided it was time to move his family and purchased a home in Bergen County, New Jersey. Not long after relocating, his first marriage came to an end. As he adjusted to this new chapter, Pete faced the challenges of balancing work, providing for his family, and raising two children. Through those years, he demonstrated the resilience that defined his life, remaining a devoted father and never losing sight of what mattered most.

Pete's perseverance was rewarded when he unexpectedly met Debra. They quickly fell in love and became inseparable. The couple married and enjoyed a life filled with travel and adventure, eventually purchasing vacation homes, including one in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Debra was the love of Pete's life, and together they enjoyed many happy years as snowbirds.

Debra's illness and passing in 2012 were devastating losses for Pete. Yet, true to his character, he found a way to move forward. He developed a passion for collecting and selling military memorabilia and vintage toys—items he never had as a child. Over time, Pete became a legend at local flea markets and swap meets, where his deep knowledge, infectious personality, and remarkable life stories drew people from all walks of life. He was loved by nearly everyone he met, and people were captivated by his wisdom, humor, and experiences.

In his late seventies, Pete met Joy Bell, and together they shared several years of love, companionship, and happiness. Their time together brought great joy to Pete. After Joy suffered a stroke, she returned to her family in Thailand in 2023, where she remained surrounded by their care and support.

Pete is survived by his daughter, Christine Dombek, and her husband, Paul Dombek, of Sanford, Florida; his beloved granddaughter, Gabriella Allen, and her husband, Aaron Allen, of Sanford, Florida; and his cherished great-granddaughter, Maisyn Allen, who brought endless sunshine to his life. He is also survived by his son, Richard Canton, and his partner, Megan Fink, along with her three children, of West Milford, New Jersey; his brother, Joseph Canton, and his wife, Barbara, of Oyster Bay, New York; his brother, Michael Canton, and his wife, Barbara, of Germany; his sister in law Renate; his niece, Michele Castro, of Holbrook, New York; his nephew, George Canton, of Raleigh, North Carolina; his nieces, Bettina Canton and Stefanie Canton, both of Germany; and his dear companion, Joy Bell, of Thailand.

Pete was predeceased by his beloved wife, Debra Canton, his mother, Lilo Jenik, and his brother Thomas Canton.

Pete's life was a testament to resilience, family, perseverance, and the power of embracing each new chapter. From surviving wartime Germany to building a life in America, serving his country, raising his family, and touching countless lives through his stories, he leaves behind a legacy that will not be forgotten.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, July 25th from 4-6pm at Baldwin Brothers Funeral Home in New Smyrna Beach, Florida.