Peter J Baranishyn

Peter J. Baranishyn, 81, of Crewe, VA, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026. Pete was a devoted husband, stepfather, and step-grandfather, who lived life with passion and insatiable curiosity. The eldest son of John and Kate Baranishyn, he was born in Queens, NY. He attended University of Pittsburgh, and later, Hofstra University, where he earned his BSEE.

Pete dedicated his career to information technology, expanding and improving hardware and software systems. Many of the projects he managed laid the foundation for today’s technology, including digital displays, data storage devices, and operating systems. He held Director of Engineering/Senior Engineer positions with many large corporations.

From an early age, Pete enjoyed building and flying remote-controlled airplanes. He was an instructor, and later, the President of the Smithtown Model Airplane Club in NY. He taught advanced students acrobatic maneuvers and developed a flying program for disabled children, including guided flying for a blind student.

Drafted in 1966 during the Vietnam War, Pete served in Alaska as the senior radar technician, earning the nickname "Alphabet". Based on his stories from this time, his participation within his tank division was both laughable and legendary.

Pete retired to Crewe in 1997 and began goat farming, a successful endeavor until he named the goats and started treating them as part of an extended family.

A man who lived life large, he touched many lives for the better. He will be remembered with love and sorely missed. Pete is survived by his second wife, Janette (Mellen), two step-children, Jennifer Hanna and Robert Giuffra, and three step grandchildren.

Per Pete’s request, a simple family service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements by the Blackstone Chapel Joseph McMillian Funeral Home, 1826 Cox Rd., Blackstone, VA 23824. www.mcmillianfuneralhome.com

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