Obituary of Francis "Pete" B. Townsend

Francis “Pete” Bernard Townsend, 78, passed away peacefully on the evening of Tuesday (October 3rd).

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, (October 14th) at St Michaels Church. Followed by a celebration of life at the Penn Yan Moose Club.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made at the Keuka Comfort Care on 35 RT 54 East Lake Rd, Penn Yan NY 14527. Memories of Pete may be shared at www.townsendwoodfuneralchapel.com

Pete was born May 1st, 1945 in Penn Yan, to Mr and Mrs Joseph and Margaret Townsend. At 17 his father finally agreed to sign off and allow him to join the Navy. In which he then served overseas in Japan as well as Korea for 6 years. Once back home, he married the love of his life Patricia Ann Townsend, on Saturday, February 15th, 1969. The marriage took place at the Milo Center Methodist Church, and was officiated by Rev Charles Hess. In 1970 he joined the local NO. 43 Masonry Union. Two years later he then started a contracting business with his older brother, Joe Townsend, and Don Raynak. To which he devoted the rest of his life growing and enjoying. He took incredible pride in TRT Masonry, and you can find his work throughout Penn Yan, and all along the beautiful Keuka Lake. Pete continued to work alongside his grandson Mason Covell up until his final days.

First and foremost, Pete was a man with a hard work ethic. He spent majority of his time working to provide for his family, which was his first priority in life. In his remaining time he spent relaxing, you’d find him with his family at the lake, in the home he built, or enjoying a beer and tickets at the local Penn Yan Clubs. Pete was a notoriously lucky man, and liked to play his odds at the Casino every so often. He was the epitome of a tried and true gentleman. One that would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. There’s an Irish proverb that goes, “Say but little, but say it well” and Pete did just that. He was fondly loved and will be deeply missed by many.

Pete is preceded in death by his wife of 48 years Patricia Ann Townsend, his parents Mr and Mrs Joseph and Margaret Townsend. His parents in law Mr and Mrs James and Dorothy Eaves. His brothers Joseph and James Townsend. And his eldest sister Mary (Walter) Brown.

Pete is survived by his daughter Taunja (Lance Green) Townsend and step daughter Kimberly (Steve) Young. Grandchildren Mia (Ryan Muller) and Mason (Amanda D’Agostino) Covell, and Owen Henderson. Step grandchildren Zachary and Brandon Young. Great grandchildren Barron and Brinn. Sisters Judy Wilber and JoAnn (Bill) Burg. Sister in law Kathy Blanchard. As well as several nieces and nephews. Along with with his adored companion Judy Dinehart.