Peter Robert Schoonmaker

Peter R. Schoonmaker, 71, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2026 in the comfort of the home that he built. He is the son of Robert and Marjorie (Dutcher) Schoonmaker and is survived by his wife of 48 years, Christine (DeGolyer) Schoonmaker and his brother, Mark J. Schoonmaker.

He was a lifelong resident of Gloversville.  Scouting was an important part of his childhood, with Troop 57 of the Sir Wm. Johnson Council. He earned the rank of Eagle Scout and upheld the qualities of the Scout Oath, Law, and Motto throughout his life and career.  As a boy, he was influenced by his grandfather and father in the appreciation of fly fishing, training bird dogs, and hunting with treasured English Setters and Springer Spaniels.  He was a 1973 graduate of Gloversville High School and awarded the Senior Superlative of having the nicest smile in the class, a facial expression he was known for throughout his life, and which accompanied his wit and wisdom for perfectly timed “one liners”.

He graduated from Alfred State College in 1975 with a degree in building construction.  He began his career as a carpenter with his father, R.J. Schoonmaker and Son Builders and Contractors, and continued the business for 40 years.   He was well known for his quality workmanship as a carpenter, but also as a contractor who could be depended on to bring together the best tradespeople to complete a job to his employer’s satisfaction. He maintained close relationships with many of the people he worked for over the years. In 2004, he began the business, Adirondack Westport Chair. These chairs are now enjoyed in homes and landscapes in the Adirondacks and New England.

Peter was proud of his career as a firefighter for the City of Gloversville. His knowledge and level headedness could be depended on in any situation. He was a team player with fellow fire fighters, developing true and faithful friendships that continued until his last days.

Peter carried on his family’s traditions of hunting and fishing and wrote three books and hundreds of magazine articles about his experiences pursuing deer, turkey, elk, caribou, antelope, and bighorn sheep with muzzle loaders, modern sporting arms, and bow and arrow. He had the knack of being able to take you along with him as he described the details of his experiences through prose.  His stories were enhanced by his photographs of the animals he patiently observed.  He enjoyed annual fishing trips with friends, and a lazy day catching trout on a quiet pond. He was a member of the Owl Pond Chuck-A-Muck Hunting Club and Pine Tree Rifle Club.

Known as the “go to guy” for family and friends, he was always prepared to help. He served on the men’s board of The Getman Home for many years.

He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Cindy DeGolyer; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, James and Bonnie DeGolyer; nephew Jordan Schoonmaker (Christina); and nieces Heather Felde (Daniel), Heidi Bolebruch (Jeffrey), Kristina Mason (Chris Hewston), and Beth Wanmer (Kevin Hilfiker); and grand nieces and nephews: Jordan and Camilla Schoonmaker, Fitzgerald and Iris Felde, Collin and Katherine Bolebruch, Payton and Toby Mason, Morgan Chimento and Ava Trimarchi; and three great-nieces.

Peter and Christine were grateful for the companionship and love from family and old friends, and the loving kindness and support from Deb, Heidi, and Katie.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026 from 10 AM – 12 PM, with a funeral service following at Noon at the Betz, Rossi, Bellinger & Stewart Family Funeral Homes, 51 Fremont Street, Gloversville, N.Y. with the Rev. Joyce Royal as Celebrant. Burial will follow at Broadalbin-Mayfield Rural Cemetery after the service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to: Mountain Valley Hospice and Palliative Care- 108 Steele Ave., Gloversville; North Main Street United Methodist Church- 316 N. Main Street, Gloversville, NY 12078.