Peter L. Carnes, a beloved figure in multiple Massachusetts communities and law enforcement across the United States, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2024, after a courageous five-year battle with cancer. He was 71.

Peter was born and raised in Wenham and spent the second half of his life in Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts. He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 50 years, Karen, their son, Brendan, daughter-in-law, Weronika, and his cherished granddaughter, Romy.

Peter's legacy is one of unwavering dedication to serving and protecting his community, epitomizing what a Policeman should be. His 47-year career in law enforcement was marked by exceptional leadership and a profound commitment to mentorship. Starting his journey in Wenham in 1971, he steadily rose through the ranks, becoming Chief of the Wenham Police Department in 1984. His career continued as Chief of the Yarmouth Police Department from 1995 until his retirement in 2008. Even in retirement, Peter's passion for law enforcement led him to serve as Chief of Police and Director of Campus Safety at Stonehill College, and finally, as Police Academy Director of the Cape Cod Regional Municipal Police Academy. Throughout his career Peter was active in the Rotary Club International, the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association.

Beyond his numerous professional accomplishments, Peter will be remembered for his warmth, humor, and genuine compassion. He was a mentor to countless Police and a true friend to all who knew him. Peter's passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his memory will live on through the lives he touched within the communities he served.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, from 4 to 8 pm at Hallett Funeral Home, 273 Station Avenue, South Yarmouth, Massachusetts. A Funeral Service will be held at First Lutheran Church of Cape Cod, 1663 Main Street Route 6A, West Barnstable, Massachusetts on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at 11 am. The burial will take place in Wenham, Massachusetts at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Peter’s memory to the Sean M. Gannon Memorial Fund, the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, or the VNA Hospice and Palliative Care of Cape Cod.
 

Very sorry to hear about Chief Carnes. A real gentleman with a remarkable record of service. A credit to the law enforcement profession. Rest in peace, brother.

Dear Karen and Brendan: So saddened by the loss of a great husband and father and, for me, a treasured law enforcement colleague. Peter was such a kind and knowledgeable police chief, and we always had more than a few laughs when Peter would sit on my assessment panels for different agencies. I pulled my back during one training at Stonehill, and there's Peter giving me a hunched-over ride back to my car across campus! Typical. The thing I admired most about Peter was his ability to lead with integrity and, at the same time, remain almost universally liked and loved. I only hope that your memories of Peter will, in some measure, soften the pain of his untimely passing. Blessings to you, John Scheft

With sincere thanks for all you did for us Peter, the College is better because of you. We have planted a grove of 30 trees in grateful recognition for all you did for the Stonehill community. You are missed and fondly remembered.

Karen, I was very sad to read of Peter's passing. He was so helpful to me and went out of his way to offer his profound advice to me when I was Principal of Wixon He was so caring and always remembered that I lost my brother as a result of injury in the line of duty. Peter was a great role model to all policemen and women. Prayers for you and your family.

My deepest condolences to the Carnes' family , Peter was a great influence on me as he inducted me into his Champion Security Co. As I got to know him I realized how much dedication he put into his new endeavor. He was committed to the importance of safety and awareness of the traffic flagging business. I am truly blessed to have known him as a mentor and a good man. May God bless your family. Tom Kennedy

To the family of Peter Carnes! Our deepest sympathy, and our thoughts and prayers are with you. Karl and Ursula Soberger ( members of first lutheran church )

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I know in my heart Peter is with God and he will continue to watch over and keep safe all those he loved. Peace be with you.

Thoughts and prayers and hugs to you Karen, Brendan and family. As a retired employee of the Town of Yarmouth, I was heart broken to learn of Peter's death. He was a genuine person and I was so glad our paths passed. I remember the day I was in the parking lot of the grocery store and he stopped me and explained to me what the lines meant in the parking lot as I was pushing my empty cart back to the store. I remember running into the both of you several times when we (Irene, Shirley and me-Peggy) at the Yarmouth House. Brendan we watched you grow from a little boy to a young man-your Dad (and your Mom) were/are so proud of you. Peter's suffering is over-rest in peace Peter. You will be in our harts forever. Karen I'm Tara Mason's Mother-In-Law.

I'm very sorry to hear of Chief Carnes passing. Peter was very supportive and helpful in so many ways when I assumed the position of Chief of Police in Eastham (MA) in 2000. He held regular meetings with all the Cape Chiefs at Y.P.D. and we all worked together to make the Cape a better place than most to work and live. Chief Carnes will be dearly missed and I wish Karen and Peter's family my heartfelt sympathies, Rick Hedlund (Eastham P.D. ret.)

Be with God Peter,you will be sorely missed please keep that Carnes smile it has lifted many hearts! Love M

Dear Karen, My wife Ginny and I were so sorry to hear of Pete's passing and his long fight with cancer. When Pete was chief in Wenham and I was chief in Marblehead, Pete, Jimmy Marrs, Ron Ramos and I had many good times at Chief Meetings and the Run for Jimmy over the years. Our prayers are with you and your family at this time. Sincerely John (Buzz) and Virginia (Ginny) Palmer

Oh Karen and Brendan and family,,we are so saddened with this news...our hearts are with you...Jean Cole xxxxxxx