Saratoga Springs, NY - Peter Pemberton Jr., formerly of Vermont St., passed away Tuesday (Feb. 21, 2017) at the Masonic Home in Utica, NY.  He was 96.

A naturalized citizen of the US, Peter was born on Nov. 5, 1920 in St. John, New Brunswick, Canada. He is the son of the late Peter Pemberton and Ellen R. (Hawkins) Pemberton and was a lifelong resident of Saratoga Springs. He attended Mechanicville School. He worked for 5 years as a dairy truck driver and machine operator, until July 2, 1942 when he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corp.

A veteran of World War Two in the Pacific Theatre, Peter served honorably as a Sergeant in the 1st Marine division's Amphibian tractor unit during operations against the enemy on New Britain, Peleliu, and Okinawa Shima, receiving a commendation from the Commanding General of the Pacific forces. He joined the Saratoga Springs Police Department in 1950 and served until his retirement on June 20, 1986. His 36 years of service included 19 years as the Police Chief of Saratoga Springs. Pete was an accomplished jazz guitarist, avid fisherman, electronics experimenter and dedicated husband and father. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his wife, Anna (O'Rourke) Pemberton, and his siblings Lilian (Pemberton) Lane, Larry Pemberton, and George Pemberton.

Survivors include his sister, Doris (Pemberton) Leary, two sons, Frank (Jody) Pemberton of Saratoga Springs and Stephen (Karen) Pemberton and their daughter, Christina Pemberton (his granddaughter), all of Whitesboro, NY.

Relatives and friends may call from 4 to 8pm Friday (Feb. 24) at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway (584-5373).

Funeral services will be conducted at 10am Saturday (Feb. 25) at the Burke Funeral Home and burial with military honors will follow in the family plot at St. Peter's Cem., West Ave.

Memorials may be made in his name to the Masonic Care Community of New York, 2150 Bleecker St., Utica, NY 13501.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.