Peter K. Steinke

Peter K. Steinke, lovingly known to many as "Pepsi Pete," passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on August 5, 2026. He was 67 years old.

Born on May 23, 1959, in Manhattan, New York, Peter was the son of Heinz and Renata (Redeker) Steinke. Proud of his German heritage throughout his life, he embraced family, friendship, laughter, and good times with a passion that was unmistakably his own.

Peter dedicated more than 30 years to Pathmark Corporation, as a Frozen Food Manager in Yonkers. Never one to stay idle, he later joined ShopRite in Poughkeepsie, and eventually retired from N & S Supply in Fishkill.

Peter believed life was meant to be enjoyed. Whether he was listening to his favorite '80s music or any song with a great beat, shooting pool with friends, caring for his many fish and aquariums, or sitting around the table playing cards-especially his favorite game, "May I"-he was happiest when surrounded by the people he loved. A devoted sports fan, he rarely missed cheering on the New York Rangers, New York Giants, New York Mets, or Germany's national soccer team.

When Peter first moved from Yonkers to the Hudson Valley in 1991, he quickly became involved in several local men's softball leagues. He also cherished the years he spent coaching his son's soccer, baseball, and basketball teams, creating memories they would carry with them forever.

Family vacations to the Jersey Shore, discovering a great restaurant, sharing a meal with loved ones, and keeping everyone laughing with one of his countless jokes were among Peter's favorite pastimes. His quick wit, playful personality, and infectious sense of humor made him someone people naturally gravitated toward. And, of course, it was rare to see him without a Pepsi in his hand-earning him the nickname that stuck for years: "Pepsi Pete."

More than anything, Peter was a devoted father and an incredibly proud grandfather, also known as Opa. He leaves behind the mother of his children, Bonnie Steinke; his son, Jason Steinke and his wife, Sophia; his daughter, Nicole Costanzo and her husband, Anthony; his cherished granddaughter & his Angel, Aubree Costanzo; and a grandson on the way, whom Peter lovingly nicknamed "Gazoo." He is also survived by his mother, Renata Steinke; his brother, Michael Steinke and his wife, Michelle; his nephew, Stephen Steinke; his girlfriend, Diane Forcaretta; along with many extended family members and friends who will forever remember his laughter, kindness, and unforgettable personality.

Family and friends will gather on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction, NY 12533. A funeral service celebrating Peter's life will begin in the funeral home at 7:30 p.m.

Peter courageously battled stage IV lung cancer for 2 ½ years with remarkable strength, resilience, and determination. Throughout his journey, he faced every challenge with courage, inspiring all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Peter's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Peter lived life with a smile, a joke at the ready, music playing in the background, and a Pepsi never too far away. His laughter, love for his family, and ability to make every gathering a little brighter will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.