Obituary of Frederick Peter Haeni

Frederick Peter Haeni, 76, of Deep River, Connecticut, passed away peacefully at home on 11/26/2017, after a long battle with cancer. Pete is survived by his wife, Jane; his sons, Christian (Amanda) and Jeffrey (Julie) and his grandchildren, Kaia, Nicolas, Laurel, and Georgia. Pete was born and raised in New York City and spent summers on Long Island. There he developed his love for the water and for boats. That passion led him to the United States Naval Academy, where he joined the sailing team, and raced Luder 44s. After his commission and nuclear school in Idaho, Pete served aboard the USS Becuna (SS-319) and the USS Ethan Allen (SSBN-608) and completed patrols in the North Atlantic and the Mediterranean. While earning his master's degree from Wesleyan, Pete built his home in Deep River. Working on the home and surrounding farm became a lifelong passion for Pete. Pete's career at the United States Geological Survey focused on developing and teaching new techniques to mitigate environmental and engineering challenges associated with ground water. His work took him around the globe to sites like the Grand Canyon, Mount St. Helens, and the United Arab Emirates. In retirement, Pete focused on the things he loved - sailing his boat, spending time in Maine, gardening, and playing with his four grandchildren. Geologist, builder, sailor, farmer, brother, husband, dad, and Pop-Pop - Pete was a man of unending talent, energy, and enthusiasm who will be missed by all. Friends may join the family for calling hours on December 7 from 4:30-7:00PM at the First Congregational Church in Essex. A service will be held at the First Congregational Church in Essex on Friday, December 8 at noon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Eagle Light Caretakers, c/o Henry Hoyle, 1718 P St. NW Apt. 304, Washington DC, 20036 or the Deep River Land Trust, P.O. Box 101, Deep River, CT, 06417. To share a memory Pete or send a condolence to his family, please visit www.rwwfh.com. Arrangements by Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home, Centerbrook.