Peter J. Grandstaff

randstaff, Peter J. Peter J. Grandstaff, age 78, passed away at his home in Manchester surrounded by his family on Monday, December 14, 2020. He was born on October 22, 1942 in Port Chester, New York to Edwin and Patricia (Kerridge) Grandstaff. Selfless service to community, being a worthy citizen, and connecting to a cross-section of people were central themes of his life. Shaped early by the community support of Mamaroneck, New York, he had a passion for Scouting, earning the rank of Eagle Scout and serving later as Troop leader in the St. Louis Area Council. He had many academic distinctions including a Regents diploma with honors, bachelor's degree cum laude from Union College, and a PhD in Economics from Duke University. It was during his service as a commissioned Air Force officer where he met his wife of 52 years, Ann (Richar) Grandstaff. According to him, she was the gift of a lifetime. A brief career as an academic brought him to the Midwest. Settling in St. Louis, Peter worked for decades as an economist and data analyst for AT&T and its predecessors. Together with his wife, he said his main accomplishment was the raising of three children whose "lives speak for themselves." This year had been difficult, especially with the passing of his wife in July, but it also brought unexpected opportunities to have his sister and children in St. Louis for extended periods. Left to honor him and remember his love are his sister Linda Grandstaff; sons Edward and James Grandstaff; daughter Emily Grandstaff-Rice; brother-in-law Bob Richar; sisters-in-law Pat Pokay and Mary Richar; son-in-law Matt Rice; daughter-in-law Christy Burrows-Grandstaff; five grandchildren: Colin, Anna, Luke, Vivian, and Katie; and many dear friends and neighbors from University City where he lived for over four decades. He loved being outdoors, anything to do with trains, and bird watching. Among Pete's lessons were two principles: certainty does not equal being right, and joy is independent of monetary value. As a data analyst, he was a perpetual keeper of lists. This one seems fitting: 1. Do good and be good in the community. 2. Cherish and learn from family, friends, and others different than you. 3. Find wonder in the natural world, especially birds in flight, fishing, and someone to enjoy it with. 4. Take a long, slow drive through Lone Elk Park. Services: For safety and public health, an online memorial and visitation will be held Saturday, January 2, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. CT at the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_zA9ig6fBQmyGXnZUE6kSlA. Burial at Bellerive Gardens with military honors will be private. The family welcomes donations to a charity of your choice as an expression of sympathy.

Tributes

Peter J. Grandstaff

October 22, 1942 - December 14, 2020