Peter J. Gatas

Peter J. Gatas born January 29, 1940 to Joseph and Khazoun Gatas in Sibhel, Lebanon was the 16th of 17th children and is the last living member of his generation. Peter Gatas arrived to the United States on August 20, 1955 on the Conte Biancamano ship at the age of 15 years old along with his mom, his older sister Evelyn and youngest sister Jeanette and docked on the shores of the NY Harbor. He learned the English language and worked multiple jobs and put himself through Barber School and became a licensed Barber after graduating #1 in his class in 1963. After serving his two year apprenticeship, he opened Pete's Barber Shop at 394 Oliver Street in January 1966 in North Tonawanda, NY until his retirement in 2020. His motto was, "If You Want To Look Neat You Got To See Pete."

He married Antoinette M. Gatas (Salhab) of Sibhel Lebanon on September 30, 1967 at Saint John Maron Maronite Catholic Church in Williamsville, NY and God blessed them with two sons and a daughter, Joseph P. Gatas, John P. Gatas and Mary Anne Ceranski(Gatas). He has 3 grandchildren Isabella, Noelle and Jacob Ceranski and his Son-in-law Michael Ceranski.

Peter Gatas is known for his deep love for his Catholic Faith and devotion to the Mass, the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary along with his deep dedication, devotion and love for his family, customers, life and anyone in need. His generous and compassionate heart was unparalleled and he always looked to lift anyone up that required assistance with a word of encouragement and prayer. He used to sing to his customers and loved car drives, music, dancing and singing to the beats and rhythm of Lebanese Music.

He lived life to the fullest and his legacy is being a devoted and faithful Servant of Jesus and Almighty God, loving Son, devoted father, husband, grandfather and friend. He was a person of Wisdom and accepted the crosses that were given to him with patience and love and set a beautiful example for us to live by. WE LOVE YOU BYAH AND JIDO!