Peter Allan MacDonald

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Peter MacDonald of Somerville, MA, who left us on September 3rd at the age of 52. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kim Payson; their children, Tad and Erin; his parents Peter and Loretta MacDonald of Rehoboth; his sister Shawna Marquis and her husband Christian of Arlington; his brother Matthew MacDonald and his wife Jane of Somerville. Peter also leaves behind a loving extended family of in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and countless friends and colleagues whose lives he touched.

Most people would describe Pete as a gifted or talented artist, as if he were born with an innate ability. In response, Pete might raise an eyebrow and politely point out that becoming an artist takes a lot of hard work. He spent much of his career as an artist in the Boston-area video game industry, building entire worlds for others to enjoy. Outside of work, he continued to hone his craft, drawing inspiration from the world around him—sketching portraits and infusing everyday scenes with curiosity and whimsy.

In addition to art, he loved music and vowed to never get “stuck” listening to the same genre.  He shared his daily morning earworm to the delight of his family and coworkers and inspired others to never get stuck. He would always show up to support his brother Matthew’s band when they performed and loved living in a neighborhood where he could continue to support local music and inspire his friends and family to do the same.   

Pete brought a contagious curiosity and energy to everything he did. Above all, his greatest achievement was the loving life he built with Kim and their daughters. His devotion to family and friends was unwavering, and he showed boundless care and kindness to everyone he knew, never hesitating to lend a hand or an empathetic ear, or to lift the mood with a well-timed joke and laughter.  

His generous spirit and joyful presence enriched the lives of all who knew him, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

A celebration of Pete’s life will be held on October 9th from 6-11pm at Vera’s, 70 Union Square, Somerville, MA 02143.