Peter J. Roth

Peter Roth, age 75, of Oak Creek, WI passed on peacefully in his sleep on December 15, 2021. Peter is survived by his children, Peter and Heather;  sister, Pamela Roth (Stoll); brother-in-law Jeff;  wife, Michele; stepson, Max; and all of his grandchildren. Preceding him in death was his father, Peter; mother, Sue; and wife, Dana.

Peter started his life in music by spending the first 5 years of his life traveling with his family to his father’s musical performances as a bass player with the Eddie Howard Band. He spent his remaining childhood years growing up in Cudahy, Wisconsin. Music continued to be a huge influence in Peter’s life growing up. He started early on the trumpet and excelled in the craft. Peter knew by his teenage years that he wanted to be a music educator and followed his dream passionately for the entirety of his life. Sheboygan Falls was the start to his teaching career, and soon thereafter moved back to Cudahy to teach band at Cudahy West Middle School and then at the Cudahy elementary schools while also earning his master’s degree in music education. He held dear so many wonderful memories of directing Lake Band, a competitive local drum-corp. His long-time involvement as a music consultant for the Oak Creek Marching Band was a constant source of pride for him. The staff, students, and parents of the OCHS band brought so much joy to Pete, both before and after retirement. He inspired, encouraged, and instilled the love of music in all the students and adults who were lucky enough to know him and be educated by him. Generations of musicians and directors have been created all around the country because of Peter’s dedication to education and his love of music. 

In addition to educating,  Peter actively performed in numerous groups. He played back-up in some top-name groups, but truly cherished his time performing with local musicians. There are so many groups that he shared his talents with: Greenfield Concert Band, Elkhorn/Holton Band, East Troy Community Band, New Berlin Community Band, Lakeshore Wind Symphony, Renaissance Brass, several of Nick Contorno’s groups, Swing Nouveau, various church groups, and so many others; all equally important, but too numerous to remember. 

In his personal life, he deeply loved his family and found so much joy in daily life. Sitting on the couch with his dogs on his lap, a fire in the fireplace, his wife at his side, and a cup of coffee in his hand, he would say, “It just doesn’t get any better than this.” Pete loved to travel, delighted in sharing stories and helping his family and friends in any way possible. His warm smile, giant wing-span hugs, and booming laughs will be heard and felt forever in our hearts.

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