Peter P. Paonessa, of Niagara Falls, NY passed away peacefully on December 31, 2023 at Niagara Hospice House in Lockport, NY.  Born in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Peter E. and Sarah G. (Serrianni) Paonessa.

Pete was a graduate of Niagara Falls High School and earned his Associate's Degree from Niagara County Community College.  On June 20, 1987, he married Patricia D. 'Patty' (Alaimo) Paonessa, and throughout their marriage they enjoyed traveling together throughout the United States.

Pete had a musical life that has spanned over 60 years. His first paying job as a drummer was at the age of 15 on the road starting as a fill-in for a drummer in Cleveland. For the next fifty years, Pete never stopped playing.

Returning to Niagara Falls, he became the Food, Beverage and Promotion Manager at The Winery in the Ramada Inn. He hired bands from Niagara Falls and all over Western New York and made it "the IT Place" to be. Later, Pete and his wife opened their own bar and restaurant, The Village Gate.

Highlights of Pete's musical career included playing with The Mercury's, playing and recording with the Vel Tones at Apollo Studios; recording with Humphrey and the Palookas in New York City at Jerand Records; touring with The Impacts throughout the US and Canada and appearing on a television show in Halifax, Nova Scotia; and then performing with the The Kelly Gold Show on the Las Vegas circuit.

Pete was a board member of the Niagara County Police and Judges Association, a former member of the LaSalle Yacht Club and a member of Local #106 American Federation of Musicians and Local #369 Federation of Music in Las Vegas. He was the Vice-President of the Griffin River Front Corporation. He was very proud and most honored to be the Past President of the Niagara Falls Music Hall of Fame.

In addition to his beloved wife of 36 years, Peter is survived by his son, Christopher Paonessa; his brother, Russell (Carla) Paonessa; and In-Laws, Gerald (late JoAnne) Alaimo, Rodney (Linda) Alaimo, and Terry (Richard) Wall; as well as survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends across the country. He was predeceased by his siblings, Mary (late Peter) Pelsoni and Joseph (late Gertrude) Paonessa.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 4 from 4 – 8 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304.  Peter's Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday at 10 AM at St. Mary of The Cataract R.C. Church, 259 4th Street, Niagara Falls, NY 14303.  Interment in St. Joseph's Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY.  If desired, memorial offerings may be made to The Niagara Falls Music Hall of Fame.  Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.