Peter Scharnhorst

Peter Scharnhorst passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on July 7th, 2025.  Peter was born in Hamburg, Germany, on April 19, 1936, to Gustav and Grete Scharnhorst, and was the beloved older brother of his sister, Monika.

In 1952, when Peter was 16 years old, he and his family came to the United States, settling in New York City (NYC). It was through his participation with the local soccer club that he met the love of his life, his wife of 63 years, Marianne Oldemeier.  From a young age, Peter worked hard.  He held jobs as a water boy on construction sites in the city, a page at Radio City Music Hall, and a camp counselor in the summers.

Peter put himself through college at City College of New York, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in 1961.  He served briefly in the Army at Fort Dix from 1956-1958.  In 1962, he became a U.S. citizen, married Marianne, and moved to Maryland where he completed his education at University of Maryland, College Park, receiving a Doctor of Philosophy.  He spent his professional career working as a research physicist for the U.S Government with the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) in White Oak, Maryland for almost 40 years, retiring in 1996.

Peter had a lifelong love of learning, travel, and the arts. As a devoted admirer of classical music—especially opera—he cherished his trips to New York City with Marianne to attend performances at the Metropolitan Opera House. His love of exploration took him across the United States and abroad, enriching his life with unforgettable experiences. He also found great joy and camaraderie in playing weekly tennis matches with his close friends from the NSWC.

Peter was a true jack of all trades who took great pride in handling tasks himself. He found joy in maintaining his home and caring for his property, always attentive to the details. Known for his lively spirit, Peter also never missed the chance to enjoy a good party! Amid all of life’s adventures and the many hobbies he enjoyed, Peter’s greatest joy was his family—most especially his three cherished grandchildren.

Peter is survived by his devoted wife Marianne Scharnhorst, his daughters Susanne Gibbons (husband Joe) and Elke Shupe (husband Chuck), and his three grandchildren, Anna Gibbons, Christopher Shupe, and Stephanie Shupe.  Your family and friends miss you Peter/Dad/Opa, our only consolation is that one day we meet again.  May God hold you, grant you the peace you deserve, and restore you.  You are and always will be precious to us.

To celebrate Peter’s life and legacy, his family will be holding a private memorial service.