Peter Chapman Wise, a 35-year resident of Cranbury, NJ, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026 at the age of 85. He enjoyed life to the fullest, rarely missing the opportunity to engage in conversation. His inquisitive nature flourished when exploring every nuance of a topic.
Peter was born in Hackensack, NJ on March 25, 1940, and spent his early childhood there before moving to Pottstown, PA.
He went on to Ursinus College in 1958 in Collegeville, PA, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Engineering and Physics. His lifelong love of basketball and track and field began there as captain of both teams, playing all four years. He has since passed this love of basketball onto his children, where he relished attending games at their respective three colleges.
After Ursinus, he relocated to East Windsor, NJ, beginning his long career with RCA Aerospace. He excelled not only at the technical aspects of his engineering position but also as a manager, leading a large team reporting to him.
While working at RCA he received a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering at Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA.
After 36 years with RCA Aerospace, he pursued a second career as the Executive Director of the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen. The ten years he devoted to the organization left a monumental impact on the lives of many. He was instrumental in establishing career development programs. He treated all of the patrons with dignity and respect, turning the soup kitchen into a House of Hospitality.
In retirement, Peter kept engaged and active. He regularly had lunch with various men’s groups who loved intellectual discussions. He wrote and published his autobiography and loved to portray Aaron Burr in historical reenactments. He and Kathie enjoyed many family gatherings, river cruises, theater, concerts, local community service, world-wide travel, winters in Florida and trips to Amish country.
Peter was a compassionate and supportive husband, friend, father, grandfather, brother and uncle. He was predeceased by his parents, Willard K. Wise Jr. and Iris Chapman Wise, and by his brother, William Wise. He is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Kathleen; his sister, Mary Megan Leopold; his children: Wendy Borg (Pete), Jeffrey Wise (Sue), Jennifer Cawley (Chris), Chris Bittner (Emily), Scott Bittner (Jaime) and Keri Gollance (Adam); and his 12 grandchildren: Gavin, Michael, Mallory, Jonathan, Cheyenne, Leslie, Alyssa, Lily, Sierra, Sahara, Asher and Hazel Rose.
The family would like to thank relatives, friends and staff at The Gardens at Monroe who helped Peter during his final months. A special thanks to Felix for his compassion and care of Peter.
Contributions in memory of Peter may be made to St. David’s Episcopal Church, Trenton Area Soup Kitchen or a non-profit that resonates with you.
A Celebration of Life will be held at St. David’s Episcopal Church, 90 South Main Street, Cranbury, NJ, on Saturday, January 10, at 10:00 a.m., with a light reception to follow in the Gathering Place at the church. All are welcome to attend.
Arrangements are under the direction of A.S. Cole Son & Co., 22 North Main Street, Cranbury, NJ.