Mr. Peter Paul Hughes, age 65, of Holland Patent, NY, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

    Peter was born on November 7, 1960, in New Hartford, NY, the son of Robert and Patricia (Lewicki) Hughes. He was raised in Utica and graduated from Utica Free Academy, class of 1979. On July 11, 1987, Peter was united in marriage to the love of his life, Michelle L. Collins, at St. Joseph & St. Patrick Church in Utica.

    Peter was employed at Pride of Utica Ice Cream earlier in his career and later became the proud owner and operator of Pete’s Cakes in Holland Patent, a business he ran with dedication for many years. He enjoyed fishing, bowling, and billiards and was a talented and gifted woodworker. Above all, Peter’s greatest joy was his family—especially his cherished granddaughter, Haley, who was truly the light of his life. He was a member of St. Leo’s & St. Ann Catholic Church in Holland Patent.

    Peter is survived by his beloved wife, Michelle; his daughters, Stephanie Hughes of Holland Patent and Nicole Caldwell and her husband, Jonathan, of Prospect; and his treasured granddaughter, Haley Caldwell. He is also survived by his brother, Joseph Hughes and his wife Suzanne of New Hartford; his sisters, Teresa DeCarr and her husband Timothy of Ilion, and Joann Hughes of West Winfield; his Godmother, Barbara Kulesa; as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins and his canine companions, Peaches and Bowser. Peter was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Patricia Hughes, and his canine companion, Belle.

    Visitation for family and friends will be held on Monday, January 12, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro Street, Utica. A service will follow at 7:00 PM at the conclusion of visitation.

    Those wishing to honor Peter’s memory are kindly asked to consider a donation to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, 28 West 44th Street, Suite 609, New York, NY 10036, or online at www.give.bcrf.org. Donation envelopes will be available at the funeral home.