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1943 Peter Major 2025

Peter A. Major

October 18, 1943 — October 23, 2025

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Peter Alan Major, age 82, passed away on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at UPMC Hamot Hospital. He was born on October 18, 1943 in Erie, a son of the late Frank and Julia (Serfozo) Major.

Pete was a graduate of Cathedral Preparatory School, Class of 1961. After high school, he proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Upon returning home, he earned a Bachelor's degree from Gannon University. Pete went on to build a long and successful career as a valued sales associate at Valu Home Center. Earlier in his professional life, he worked as an adjuster for Erie Insurance, a sales associate at JCPenney, and a realtor. A passionate stamp and coin collector, Pete was also a lifelong member of Saint Peter Cathedral, serving as an usher for many years and in other roles. He was a devoted fan of the Cleveland Browns and Guardians and enjoyed supporting local casinos.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Frank and Gerald Major; his sister, Frances Major; and his long time companion, Karen Gallagher.

Pete is survived by his children, Kevin Major (wife, Terra) and Karen Klimczyk; his grandchildren, Grace Klimczyk, Charlotte Klimczyk, Cassidy Major (fiance, Peighton Cornelli) and Ciara Major; his brother, Paul Major (wife, Claudia); his former wife, Linda Major; and his brother-in-law, Charles Boyce. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

Friends may call on Monday, October 27th, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the John R. Orlando Funeral Home, 2122 Raspberry Street, and are invited to a Funeral Mass on Tuesday, October 28th, at 10 a.m. at Saint Peter Cathedral, 230 W 10th St. Burial will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Erie VA Medical Center, 135 E. 38th St., Erie PA, 16504 (Attention: Karen O'Neal) or Pennsylvania Soldiers and Sailors Home, 560 E. 3rd St., Erie PA, 16507. (Attention: Ken Vybrial) put in the memo for veteran's needs.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Peter A. Major, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Past Services

Public Viewing

Monday, October 27, 2025

2:00 - 6:00 pm (Eastern time)

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John R. Orlando Funeral Home, Inc.

2122 Raspberry Street, Erie, PA 16502

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Mass

Tuesday, October 28, 2025

10:00 - 11:00 am (Eastern time)

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Committal Prayer Service

Tuesday, October 28, 2025

11:15 - 11:30 am (Eastern time)

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Gate of Heaven Cemetery Mausoleum

5711 West Lake Road, Erie, PA 16505

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