Peter W. Sturges, 64, longtime resident of Sandy Hook, died suddenly on June 15, at his home. He was born in Derby on December 24, 1952, the son of Jean (Peters) Stempel and the late Robert Sturges.

Mr Sturges was a proud US Army Veteran, having served in Vietnam as a member of the 11th Armored Calvary regiment also known as "The Black Horse." He was a combat engineer, earning rank of specialist E4. For his service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Palm, Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm unit citation badge. He continued his patriotism as a member of the local VFW post 308 in Newtown and held the position of senior vice commander in 2005.

He had a passion for war and United States history facts, collecting many books and movies on the subjects. He loved his Harley-Davidson and had an obsession with anything to do with Alaska. He also enjoyed good music, as well as playing his guitar and harmonica.

Besides his mother, his brother David Sturges; daughters Ginger and Kristy Sturges; former wife and lifelong friend Debra Sturges; four grandchildren, Tara Rotas, Renee Hicks, Tyler Hine, and Dustin Hine; stepmother Ellie Sturges; along with many other family and friends survive him.

His father, brother Donald Sturges, and daughter Amanda Sturges predeceased him.

A celebration of life and remembrance will be conducted at the VFW Post 308, 18 Tinkerfield Road, Newtown, on Saturday, August 12, at 1 pm. All are welcome to attend.

18 Tinkerfield Road, Newtown CT 06470; Wounded Warrior Project at

In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor may be made to the VFW Post 308,

woundedwarriorproject.org/donate; the USO -- The force behind the Forces at USO.org/donate; or the Alaska Conservation Foundation at alaskaconservation.org.

Munson Lovetere Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

To leave an online condolence, visit munsonloveterefuneralhome.com.