Van Aernam, Peter Clinton

PHOENIX , Ariz. — Peter Van Aernam passed away from a heart attack, at the age of 70 years old, on June 17, 2022, at his aunt’s home in Phoenix. He had just returned from a two-month trip to Cambodia.

Peter was born on February 12, 1952, in Albany to Marian and Fred Van Aernam. He graduated from Albany Academy in 1970 and received his college degree from St. Lawrence University in 1976. Peter worked for Green Island Construction following graduation and traveled during work breaks to Southeast Asia to countries such as the Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. He enjoyed visiting small towns and villages and took many hikes in remote areas.

He was one of the first USA citizens to travel to China and Myanmar when those countries opened their borders to American tourists. In 1996, Peter moved to Cape Cod, Mass. and worked at Orleans Camera. He continued his travels by visiting his favorite countries again, expanding to crossing India and numerous trips to South and Central America. He recently spent time hiking the backcountry in Greece. For each and every adventure, Peter sent postcards, journaling his experiences with the locals and the land. He always brought back souvenirs for everyone. He was a life-long Green Bay Packers fan and an avid golfer. Peter was a dear friend to so many and fondly called "Uncle Pete," by young and old. His unique sense of humor often lightened many a moment. P.V.A. will be missed by so many.

Memorial services are being planned in San Diego in September and Cape Cod on his way to his interment in the Albany Rural Cemetery, sometime in the fall.