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Peter Felsenthal

Date of Death: May 31, 2025

Date of Birth: March 16, 1932

Biography:

Peter Felsenthal, 93, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2025,at his home in Topsham Maine, of Congestive Heart Failure and Parkinson’s disease, with his beloved wife Jen by his side. Born on March 16, 1932, in Glencoe, Illinois, to Alice and Robert Felsenthal, Peter’s life was marked by intellectual curiosity, creative expression, and a deep commitment to community and the natural world.

Peter’s early years were shaped by his family’s frequent relocations due to his father’s work, ultimately settling in New Rochelle, New York. There he graduated from New Rochelle High School before pursuing higher education at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He graduated in 1954 with a degree in Physics.

After graduating from MIT, Peter embarked on a professional journey that took him to Germany, working for Westinghouse in the late 1950s. Upon returning to the United States, he applied his expertise in physics, engineering, and computing across several fields. One of the most notable milestones of his career came in 1969 when he received the Apollo Achievement Award from NASA for his contributions to the team that helped land a man on the moon.

Later in life, Peter returned to his roots by taking over his father’s expanded metal business. He led it successfully for many years before merging it with a major competitor and eventually selling it in 2007.

In 1954, Peter married Susan Myers. Together they raised four children: Alison, David, Edward, and Sarah. Though their marriage ended, Peter found love again while traveling in Australia in 1992 when he met Jen Litchfield. They married in 1993, and Jen moved to the United States the following year. The couple made their home first in Boothbay and later in Topsham, Maine.

Peter was grandfather to nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. His family remained an important part of his life throughout his years.

A man of wide-ranging interests, Peter was deeply committed to conservation and renewable energy. He served with numerous organizations dedicated to these causes throughout his life.

His love for sailing began in childhood and continued with the MIT sailing team. He had countless adventures along the East Coast of the U.S, Canada and Europe. With Jen by his side, he explored waterways from British Columbia to Alaska and Nova Scotia aboard their
cabin cruiser. Peter loved travel and he and Jen made many memorable trips during their time together.

Peter had a profound appreciation for music and served on the boards of two local classical music organizations for many years. A gifted photographer, he published an award-winning book featuring images of local organic farms in Maine. His work was widely exhibited, including solo shows that celebrated his keen eye for beauty and detail.

In retirement, Peter also found time to nurture his love of poetry and literature. He published a book of his own poetry and remained an avid reader throughout his life. He found one of his true spiritual homes at the Great Mother Conference—a gathering celebrating poetry, writing, art, dance, music, and eclectic spirituality founded by poet Robert Bly—which he attended annually for as long as he was able. He was a member of Temple Beth Israel in Bath.

Throughout his life—whether through science or art—Peter brought people together with warmth and purpose. In retirement especially, he cultivated deep friendships while contributing meaningfully to causes close to his heart. His presence enriched every community he touched.
Peter’s sister Jane Fraser predeceased him in 2021. He is also remembered by two nieces and their children.

He will be missed deeply by those who knew him, and cherished for the gifts he shared so generously.

May his memory continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Jen would like to extend her sincere thanks and gratitude to Chans Home Hospice in Brunswick, and the other caregivers whose loving attention allowed Peter to remain at home during his last illness.

Peter was privately cremated and there will be a celebration of life in July.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in his name to the Da Ponte String Quartet, the Salt Bay Chamberfest, Midcoast Humane or a charity of your choice.