Amherst College has recently lost a vital member of the community, Peter “Pete” Batura. Pete was an important figure in Charles Pratt Dormitory, acting as a custodian, father figure, mentor and, most importantly, a friend. If you have ever seen his smiling face, then you know how warm of individual he was. Peter was first and foremost a family man, always raving about his two daughters. He was always a pillar of support for us residents of Charles Pratt and helped us place our issues into perspective. We could have been crying about finals, breakups or room draw — whatever it was, he was always there offering a helping hand and words of wisdom. Outside of Charles Pratt, Pete brought a smile to the faces of everyone in the shop and the committees he was a part of. He was a friendly person who brought much-needed cheer to the service center and Charles Pratt. Pete will be truly missed, and this community will not be the same without his smiling face.
Pete was one of my supervisors over the summer and was a fantastic boss. He took what seemed like one of the most boring jobs ever and made it fun. There just wasn't any way you could complain when you saw how cheerful that man was, how he just exuded love and exuberance. He wasn't your boss; he was your partner in crime. The world is worse off without him.
We love you Pete.