The Winchendon Courier
Serving the community since 1878 ~ A By Light Unseen Media publication
Week of February 22 to February 29, 2024

Obituaries

Peter Duprey

PETER DUPREY
April 10, 1943 ~ February 16, 2024 (Age 80)

Michigan - Peter Duprey, born April 10, 1943, was a man of many facets; a dedicated family man, generous friend, humble servant, and an inspiring coach. Peter's life was a testament to the quote, "A good character is the best tombstone. Those who loved you and were helped by you will remember you when forget-me-nots have withered. Carve your name on hearts, not on marble." He lived a life filled with love for his family and left a legacy of honor, humility, and dignity. Peter was a lifelong "nice guy" who touched countless lives with his kindness and dedication.

Peter was proud to have served in the United States Navy from 1961-1965. Peter's passion for sports was unwavering. Whether he was rooting for his beloved Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, or the Lions after moving to Michigan, Peter's enthusiasm was infectious. But his love for sports went beyond that of a spectator. He was a celebrated coach, beginning with Pop Warner Football and Little League Baseball in Massachusetts, then becoming Head Coach of Girls Varsity Basketball at Narragansett Regional High School. His talent for coaching earned him the Coach of the Year award in 1996. Upon moving to Michigan in 2000, he continued coaching girls basketball at local high schools, a testament to his dedication and love for the game.

In addition to his sports achievements, Peter served as a sergeant in the Phillipston police force, where he was honored with the Heroic Act Award in 1991. He was also a past president of the Snowbound Club, where he and his wife, Bette, enjoyed many happy years as members. He is survived by Bette, his loving wife of 59 years, his dedicated son Peter Jr. (Jerilyn), his daughter Michelle Lee Cancelmo (Byron), son Michael (Kathryn), four granddaughters: Amanda Shadell (Blake), Celia Cancelmo, Jill Cancelmo, and Elayna Duprey; and his two great-grandchildren: Gwendolyn and Logan Shadell; and is preceded in death by his father, also named Peter Duprey. Peter worked for many years at Harrington Richardson in Gardner where he formed many friendships that have lasted a lifetime.

To know Peter was to love him. His generosity, humility, and genuine care for others made him a beacon of light in the lives of many. We invite you to share your memories and photos of Peter on the memorial page, to help keep the spirit of this remarkable man alive in our hearts.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, from 11: 00 am -2:00 pm at Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street, Winchendon, Massachusetts, 01475.

The funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm at Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street, Winchendon, Massachusetts, 01475.

Burial will follow at the Massachusetts Veterans' Memorial Cemetery, 111 Glenallen Street, Winchendon, MA 01475.

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, and Melissa A. McQuaid, Funeral Directors.