Peter Sering Shinn

Peter Sering Shinn of Dittmer, Missouri, was born March 13, 1944 in Princeton, New Jersey to Wilbert and Alice (nee Thompson) Shinn and entered into rest Friday, May 8, 2026 in Robertsville, Missouri at the age of 82 years at home with family and his cat. He is preceded in death by his parents, Wilbert and Alice (nee Thompson) Shinn; his wife, Jane Shinn; sister, Pamela Wooley. He is survived by his children, Rebecca (John) Vago and Daniel (Jayne) Shinn; grandchildren Miles Vago, Elliott and Riley Shinn; and sister, Melissa Shinn. Pete loved the outdoors and as a child, spent many summers on the family houseboat ‘The Periwinkle’. He began sailing and fishing at a young age and could be found aboard his boat, ‘The Bombay Duck’ through most of his young adult life. Joining the service after school, Pete spent some years in the Navy on the USS Wasp CV-18 and had many fond memories with his Navy buddies. After having a family and needing to move further inland, he traded in his boats for tractors and lawnmowers. He would show off his latest zero turn lawnmower to anyone who would listen. Pete was a collector of many ‘treasures’ as he called them, including a vast record collection that took up the better part of a wall in the house. He also enjoyed taking odd or interesting pieces of wood and creating furniture out of it. Pete was a grateful member of AA where he had many friends and a second home. He would do anything for someone “in need”. If it was someone in AA needing a ride or someone to talk to, or a neighbor that could use some help rewiring their electric panel or chopping wood; he would always lend an ear, a tool, a car, or a cup of coffee. Pete also had a special love for his cat, Leggo. Leggo is not a particularly good cat. Some would say he is downright horrible. But Pete would always correct you saying, “He wants to be good…It’s just difficult for him.” He somehow knew that about all of us. We all just want to be good…but sometimes it is difficult for us. Family and friends can review and share stories, photos and condolences online at www.stlfuneral.com and follow details of this event and others in the community at www.facebook.com/stlchapelhill

Peter Sering Shinn

March 13, 1944 - May 8, 2026