Wilbur "Pete" VanIdistine

Wilbur E. (Pete) VanIdistine

Age 96, of Trumansburg, passed away March 7, 2026 at Cayuga Medical Center surrounded by loved ones.

Pete was born on Aug. 15, 1929 in Livingston, New Jersey, the son of Charles and Janie VanIdistine. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend to many. He served with honor in the Marine Corps. from 1946-1948 & 1950-1951.  He qualified as sharpshooter and was honorably discharged with the rank of Sgt. 

Pete was a police officer for the city of Caldwell, NJ and city of Ithaca, until he retired as captain in 1985. He was a member of the PBA and Odessa Conservation Club. Pete enjoyed spending time with his family, woodworking, reading, hunting, and gardening.

He was predeceased by his wife Rose Marie in 2002. He is survived by his son Peter (Sally) VanIdistine of Trumansburg; daughter Vicki Merritt (Gary Bryant) of Cosby, Tennessee; and granddaughter, Jade Merritt (Nick Bradley) of Royse City, Texas.

A graveside service with full military honors will be presented at Sampson Veteran Memorial Cemetery, Romulus, NY on March 16th at 11:00am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in his memory may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation (online at www.t2t.org )

Condolences may be offered to the family in his guestbook at www.RoyceChedzoy.com The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting the family.