PETER ISRAEL MAYHEW

LEICESTER — It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Peter Israel Mayhew, on Feb. 4, 2025, at the age of 74. Peter was a devoted father, grandfather, and cherished member of the Mayhew family. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Born on May 4, 1950, in St. Albans, Vt., Peter was the son of Norma Elizabeth West and Harlan Ray Mayhew. He grew up in Richford and Rutland, Vt., and graduated from Rutland High School in 1968. Before serving in the U.S. Army, Peter worked as a metal worker at G.H. Grimm Company in Rutland, Vt., from June 1968 to November 1969. He worked alongside his father, making Lightning Evaporators and hay tedders, learning valuable skills, and taking great pride in the work he did.

Peter served his country with honor as a Spec 5 in the U.S. Army, as an air traffic radio repairman, from Dec. 1969 to January 1972. He was stationed at Can Tho Army Airfield in Long My, Cẩn Thỏ, Vietnam, with the 345th Aviation Detachment Division, which was part of the 1st Aviation Division. His time in Vietnam was an important chapter of his life, and he took great pride in his service to his country.

After completing an apprentice program, Peter graduated in 1978. Peter worked at General Electric in Rutland, Vt., from 1972 to 2006, making significant contributions throughout his career as a tool and die maker and foreman. Peter had a deep love for the outdoors, particularly hunting. Many of his happiest memories were spent with his children and grandchildren, enjoying time together and sharing his love for nature. Peter also enjoyed spending time at his camp in Indian Lake, N.Y., where he found peace and joy in the quiet of the mountains. Those moments, surrounded by family, were some of the most cherished of his life.

Peter was a man of few words, but his presence was always felt. Known for his sharp sense of humor, he had a way of brightening any room with his quick wit and dry humor. His family and friends will always remember him for the laughter he brought into their lives. Peter was also a member of the NRA and the Vermont Patriot Guard Riders.

Throughout his life, Peter was known for his kindness, his dedication to family, and his unwavering strength. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Peter leaves behind four children, Joseph Mayhew (Daphne) of West Pawlet, Rebecca Walker (Aaron) of Swanton, Patrick Mayhew (Katie) of Leicester, and Michael Mayhew (Kirstyn) of Sudbury; as well as five grandchildren, Jacob Mayhew, Morgan Mayhew, Ivy Walker, Alana Walker, and Maci Mayhew; four brothers, Michael Mayhew, Mark Mayhew and Greg Mayhew, all of Rutland, and Jon Mayhew of Pittsford. Several nieces, nephews and cousins also survive him. He was predeceased by his father, Harlan Ray Mayhew; his mother, Norma Elizabeth West; his brother Brian Mayhew; and two grandchildren, Hayden, and Colt Mayhew.

In honoring Peter’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. A private memorial service and burial, with Military Honors, will take place, at a later date at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made, in his memory to The Vermont Veterans Fund, Office of Veterans Affairs, 118 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05602 or the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, 1235 S. Clark St., Ste. 910, Arlington, VA 22202.

Our father will always be remembered for his love of hunting, his sense of humor, his dedication to family, and his unwavering strength. His memory will be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who were lucky enough to know him.

Rest in peace, Dad. You will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

Arrangements are with the Miller & Ketcham Funeral Home, Brandon. ◊