Peter Ries Norman

Estero, FL - Peter Ries Norman, a devoted husband, loving father, and gifted cinematographer, passed away peacefully on November 21, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was 94 years old.

Born in England on March 20, 1931, Peter spent his early childhood in South Africa before returning to England in 1945 to complete his education at Shrewsbury Public School in Shropshire. In 1948, he and his mother immigrated to the United States, where he began his working life with McGraw-Hill Publishing Company.

In 1952, Peter proudly joined the U.S. Air Force. It was there that he discovered the passion that would shape his entire career—filmmaking. After his honorable discharge in 1955, he began his professional journey as an assistant cameraman in Washington, D.C. His ambition and talent soon brought him to New York City, where he built a distinguished career as a freelance cinematographer. He was a member of both the International Cinematographer’s Guild and the Directors Guild of America. 

Peter’s work took him across the globe. His filmography includes contributions to iconic films such as The Pawnbroker, Goldfinger, On Golden Pond, and Donnie Brasco and he served as cinematographer for numerous feature films, documentaries, and a wide range of commercials produced through his own company. His two-year tenure with Candid Camera remains one of the most memorable chapters of his early career.

In 1968, Peter married the love of his life, Barbara Gunzenhauser, and together they built a family grounded in creativity, warmth, and deep affection. They raised two children, Pamela and Timothy, and in 1978 relocated to Salem, New York, while Peter continued to maintain his professional base in New York City.

Peter is survived by his cherished wife, Barbara; his daughter Pamela, her husband Christopher Simoneau, and their children Colin, Julia, and Lauren; and his son Timothy, his wife Tamara, and their daughter Camille. He was particularly proud that Tim followed him into the film business and is now a director of photography. He is also lovingly remembered by his numerous cousins and their children.

Peter’s legacy lives on through the stories he captured, the artistry he shared, and the generations of family who adored him. He will be remembered for his humor, his curiosity, his dedication to his craft, and the remarkable life he built from England to America and around the world. 

Funeral services will be at 11 am Saturday, April 18, 2026 at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 32 East Broadway, Salem, NY.  Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Salem.  A reception will be at the Salem Vol. Fire Dept. Hall following the burial service.

May he rest in peace.

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