Obituary of Peter Maximilian Simonson

Peter Maximilian Simonson, Loving Husband, Father, Brother and Friend passed away suddenly and much too soon on June 3, 2018 at the age of 63. Actor, model, business owner and entrepreneur, Peter was a true Renaissance Man. Born in Staten Island, New York, Peter's first and foremost passion was European, sport and classic cars. From extensively lovingly restoring his first series 1 Jaguar E-Type in high school to later years with Ferraris, Triumphs, MGBs, Mini Coopers and many others, Peter could not see a car in need without wanting to fix it and make it better. In 1983, Peter founded Maximilian Classics Limousine Company which, of course, specialized in Antique and Classic Rolls Royce and Bentley Limousines. British Taxi Cabs imported from London rounded out the fleet. In 1994, Peter opened his first shop in Morristown, New Jersey specializing in automotive interior restoration and convertible tops. As the perfectionist he was, Peter put his heart and soul into every job he did, no matter how big or small. His ability was endless and he could do things no one else could or would. He was a fair and honest businessman and his customers trusted and respected him. No fee was collected nor job completed unless it was "perfectly right". Among his many customers and colleagues in the industry he will be truly missed. But cars were not Peter's only passion. He loved jazz music and the arts, classic boats and military vehicles and particularly Frank Lloyd Wright architecture. A model and actor in his early years, Peter had recently gotten back into the acting world doing print, television and movie work. Peter's most recent projects were restoring his 1962 50' Chris Craft Constellation "If I'm Lucky" and a historic Victorian home in Hackettstown. His favorite saying was "Make It Work" and he did, every day, without complaint, no matter how hard the task or long the hours. His passing has left a hole in the hearts of everyone who knew him and everyone he touched.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 32 years, Diane Medcraft, his beloved children, Morgan, Devin and Christian and four siblings, Norman Simonson and wife, Rosemary, Bob Simonson, John Simonetti and his wife, Gayle and Lisa Smith and her husband, Michael. Also surviving are many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Peter's Life Celebration will include visiting on Thursday June 7, 2018 from 4-8 PM at Leber-Lakeside Funeral Home, 150 Landing Road, Landing, NJ. A funeral Mass will be offered on Friday June 8, 2018 at 10:30 AM at St. Mary's Abbey on the grounds of Delbarton High School, 230 Mendham Road, Morristown, NJ. All are invited to meet at church for Mass. Entombment will follow at Moravian Cemetery, 2205 Richmond Rd, Staten Island, NY 10306.