Peter F. Vickers passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family. He lived a life marked by faith, dedication, service and deep devotion to his family.

Born in Wembley, England, Peter began a remarkable career that spanned more than four decades in the international shipping industry.  Following service in the Royal Air Force from 1952-1954, he served as a ship’s officer in the British Merchant Marine before emigrating to the United States in 1960. Peter met Carmel and married in 1961 and started their family in Livonia, Michigan. Throughout his distinguished career, he held leadership positions with Cunard Line, Atlantic Container Line, Seatrain Line, and ACT/Blue Star Line, where his travels brought him around the world.  He retired as Executive Vice President of Blue Star (North America) Ltd.

Peter was a lifelong learner who earned a bachelor’s degree in business from Pace University and a Master of Science degree with honors in Transportation Management from SUNY Maritime College.  He was well respected throughout the maritime industry and served as Director of the New York Shipping Association, the Container Carriers Council, Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Steamship Operators Intermodal Council. He was a member of the Finance Committee at The Parish of Saint Mary’s and a supporter of Christian Brother’s Academy.

While Peter was proud of his professional accomplishments, he enjoyed being with his family most of all.  He treasured time spent with his wife, Carmel, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, relatives and friends.  Peter enjoyed sharing thoughtful conversations about many topics, including education, faith, history, current events, and many life lessons.  He was a trusted source of wisdom and advice, always willing to listen, encourage and offer guidance and support.

Peter was a man of many talents and interests.  He was a skilled craftsman, he loved woodworking, creating projects with his hands which included special gifts for his grandchildren. He was known to being able to fix just about anything and took pride helping with his practical skills. He also found great joy in reading books on many topics. Peter enjoyed gardening, spending time outdoors with his wife, nurturing their garden which gave them both peace and tranquility and a sense of accomplishment.

Peter’s faith was a guiding force throughout his life.  Educated by the Jesuits, he carried with him their emphasis on intellectual curiosity, service to others, personal integrity, and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and truth.  His faith was not only something he believed, but something he lived.  The values he embraced and the example he set will leave a legacy that will continue to guide those who loved him.  “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23.

He is pre-deceased by his parents, his wife Carmel Vickers, his son John Vickers and his siblings, Barbara Fenner, Stephen Vickers and Michael Vickers.

Peter is survived by his four children Anne La Porta (Thomas) of Colts Neck, Veronica Bertscha ( William) of Manalapan, James Vickers (Lisa) of San Diego, CA, and Mary Friend (Jeff) of Allentown, his grandchildren Gabrielle (Ryan), Connor, Thomas (Kristina), Madison, Emily, Joseph, and Adam and his great-grandchildren, Ava, Layla and Ashton.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 2 from 10am-11am at the Parish of St Mary, 1 Phalanx Road, Colts Neck.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11:00 am.

In lieu of traditional remembrances, Peter’s family asks with gratitude that donations in his memory be made to Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide,  Donate | SPTS