Peter Louis Presnall Dillon

Peter Lewis Presnall Dillon March 22, 1934 – April 30, 2026

Peter Lewis Presnall Dillon, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2026, a the age of 92. Born in Richmond, Virginia to Margaret (Knight) Dillon and Jesse William Dillon, Peter spent most of his adult years in Rochester, New York, where he built a life defined by curiosity, warmth, and devotion to the people he loved.

Peter was married for 52 years to Ann (Wright) Dillon, who preceded him in death in November 2025. Together they built a family of five children: Gail Davidson (Lee), Susan Kelly (Mills), Julia Hayden (Craig), Steve Dillon (Lisa), and Scott Dillon; 10 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; and one greatgrandchild on the way. Peter is survived by his sister Marty Bowles of Richmond, Virginia and niece and nephews. He was predeceased by sisters Julie Gibson and Susan Dale Dillon.

Peter was a research physicist at Eastman Kodak. He led a team that invented integral color imaging sensors and single-chip color video cameras. These inventions make possible portable medical image devices, on-site news reporting and film making, and cameras in smart phones. Peter received an Emmy ward in Technology and Engineering in 2018 and the IEEE’s Masaru Ibuka Consumer Technology Award in 2022 for his achievements.

Outside the laboratory, Peter channeled his creativity and patience into woodworking, crafting beautiful pieces that now serve as cherished family heirlooms. Peter also enjoyed being outdoors. He and his family spent happy summers in the Adirondacks on Honnedaga Lake. He was also an avid tennis player.

Peter loved gathering his family around the dinner table, and he cultivated a wide and loyal circle of friends throughout his entire life. Those friendships were not incidental to him; they were essential. Peter was a man of deep curiosity, genuine kindness, and quiet strength. He will be remembered for his scientific achievements, and, just as important, he will be remembered for the way he made the people around him feel. His life was lived well and truly enjoyed.

Friends and family are warmly invited to gather and share memories and stories of Peter at a celebration of his life at the Hahnemann Club at the Highlands of Pittsford on May 9, 2026 from 1:00 to 3:00. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Goodwill Vision Enterprises (formerly Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired), www.goodwillfingerlakes.org/give; (585) 252-1111.