Obituary of Peter Duchessi

Peter Duchessi, Amsterdam, NY, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 13, 2017, just 11 days shy of his 100th birthday. Born on November 24, 1917, he was the son of the late Mariano and Maria Paduani Duchessi. For many years Peter owned and operated Duchessi's Importing Company, on Main Street and later Duchessi's Market on Lincoln Avenue in Amsterdam. In 1976, he joined the Price Chopper supermarket chain, where he started the first Custom-cut Meat Department at the Eastern Parkway store, Schenectady, NY. In subsequent years, he assisted in the opening of Custom-cut Meat Departments in other Price Chopper stores. Peter is survived by his loving wife Madeline (Lanzi) Duchessi; children Linda (Peter) Meenan and Peter (Nancy) Duchessi; grandchildren Christopher (Christine) Meenan and Carolyn Meenan; sister, Emy Raccuia, Syracuse, NY; and many cherished nieces and nephews. Peter is predeceased by his sisters Angelina (Rocco) Abballe and Victoria (Francis) Martin and brothers William (Shirley), Anthony (Rose), and John (Eleanor) Duchessi. Peter was a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus Council 209, Elks Lodge No. 101, and the Ring 26 Veterans Boxing Association. Peter was known as the "Duke." He enjoyed being with people. He had a special twinkle in his eye that was immediately apparent and he would bring a smile to everyone's face. Peter was artistic, an awe-inspiring salesperson, and a great raconteur. His personality filled a room. Peter had a big heart. He helped numerous people during his long live and would do anything for his family. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him. On Thursday, November 16, 2017, visitation hours will be from 4:00 - 7:00 pm at the Betz, Rossi, & Bellinger Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Avenue, Amsterdam, NY. On Friday November 17, 2017 the funeral will begin with a short memorial service at the Betz, Rossi, & Bellinger Family Funeral Home, at 8:15 am, followed by a Funeral Mass at 9:30 AM at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Church, 39 Saint John Street, Amsterdam, NY. After Mass, Peter will be laid to rest at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cemetery, Truax Road, Amsterdam, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Ann Steffens Research Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 38037, Albany, NY 12203.