Peter V. Fick

Peter V. Fick, devoted husband, father, grandfather, & great grandfather who served as a dedicated teacher and inspirational coach for over 40 years, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, in West Chester, PA at age 85. Born on December 15, 1940 in Elizabeth, NJ, son of the late Robert S. Fick and Eleanor J. Willis, Pete mostly grew up in NJ, eventually settling down & living most of his life in Ringoes, NJ.

Third of five siblings that included 3 brothers, Pete led an active life participating in various sports and athletics from an early age. After finishing high school at Hunterdon Central High School, he earned his bachelor’s degree majoring in Physical Education from Springfield College and later his master’s from what is now called The College of New Jersey.

Pete began his career in Physical Education at Burlington High School, where he taught for 7 years before returning to teach at his high school alma mater for more than four decades. It was also during his expansive teaching career at Hunterdon Central where his dedicated passion for coaching was established.  Coach Fick started the boys’ gymnastics program in the early 1970’s where in 1975, he led the team to win the first statewide championship title for any team sport in Hunterdon Central High School’s history.  Leading Central’s girls’ softball program for 38 seasons, it was during this tenure his teams earned 24 conference championships, 15 county titles, multiple sectional championships, and NJSIAA Group 4 state titles in 1999 and 2011. 

Pete retired as New Jersey’s all-time leader in softball coaching victories with a record of 721–236–1, a mark reflecting not only consistent excellence, but also his commitment to developing generations of student-athletes.  Known for his approachable personality and ability to connect with players, colleagues, and families, Fick’s influence extended far beyond wins and championships. He was honored statewide for his contributions to the sport, including recognition by NJSCA Hall of Fame in 1991. On NJ.com in 2019, he was ranked among the top 99 NJ high school coaches of all time across all sports.  His legacy remains evident across decades of players who credit him not only as a coach, but as a valuable mentor and educator.

When he wasn’t teaching or coaching, Pete could be found on the golf course at Copper Hill Country Club where he was an active member for over 50 years.  Especially after retirement, he remained an avid golfer and active volunteer in the community.

Peter is preceded in death by Mary Rae Fick, his loving wife of over 50 years and leaves behind daughter Laurie White, son and daughter-in-law Peter J. and Cris Fick, and grandchildren Philip (Rebekah) White, Wesley White, Matthew Fick, Nathanael White, Rachel Fick, and Jacob Fick, and one great grandson Oliver White.  Also survived by brothers Robert Fick, John Fick (Catherine Klinger), and Malcolm (Martha) Fick, he is preceded in death by his beloved sister Emily “Lee” Marcellus, and sisters in law Dorothy Fick and Kazue “Betty” Fick.

The life and memory of Peter Fick will be celebrated with visitation and a memorial service on March 14th, 2026 at Logan Funeral Home, located at 392 Lancaster Ave, Malvern, PA, beginning at 10:30 am. Interment will be private at Carversville Cemetery, Carversville, PA.

Article: Remembering legendary Hunterdon Central NJ softball coach Pete Fick