Peter Duprey

Peter Duprey, a true gentleman, and a cherished patriarch, passed away on February 16, 2024, after a battle with Multiple System Atrophy, leaving behind a legacy of honor, humility, and dignity. Born on April 10, 1943, in Easthampton, Massachusetts, Peter's life was a testament to service, compassion, and dedication. His humble beginnings  laid the foundation for a life marked by selfless service, whether in his role as a sergeant on the Phillipston police force where he was honored with the Heroic Act Award or as a revered coach in numerous sports, inspiring young athletes and earning the respect and admiration of his community.

A lifelong "nice guy" as many would affectionately refer to him, Peter's generosity extended beyond his family and friends. He graduated from  Gardner High School in 1961 where he was a stellar athlete.  He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1961 to 1965 aboard the USS Guadalcanal LPH 7. After his enlistment he worked at Harrington and Richardson in Gardner and Level Manufacturing in Winchendon for many years before moving to Michigan to be near his granddaughters. He was also an enthusiastic sports fan, with an everlasting love for the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots, as well as the Detroit Lions. "In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years," Abraham Lincoln once said, and Peter personified this sentiment, living his life to the fullest and in the service of others.

Peter was an inspiring figure, a dedicated coach who imparted not just skills, but also values to his players. His coaching career spanned Pop Warner Football, Little League Baseball, JV Boys Basketball, and Girls Varsity Basketball at Narragansett Regional High School in Massachusetts. Peter's talent as a coach was recognized when he was named Coach of the Year in 1996. Teaching the game as well as coaching moved his players to be successful, winning numerous Championships throughout his 19 year tenure.

Upon retiring and moving to Michigan in 2000, Peter continued to coach girls' basketball at local high schools, a testament to his dedication and love for the game. 

But above all, what mattered most to Peter was his family. He was a loving and devoted husband to Bette for 59 years, a caring father to Peter, Jr. (Jerilyn) of Michigan, Michelle Lee Cancelmo (Byron) of Michigan, and Michael (Kathryn) of Alexandria, Virginia, and a doting grandfather to Amanda Shadell (Blake) of Arkansas, Celia Cancelmo, Jill Cancelmo, and Elayna Duprey.  He was preceded in death by his father Peter.       

His generous spirit, humble nature, and inspiring dedication will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Peter's legacy is truly immortal; he has left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.

We encourage all who knew and loved Peter to share their memories and upload photos to his memorial page. His story does not end here, but continues in the lives of those he touched and the love he shared with us all.

Calling hours will be at Stone Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central St., Winchendon, March 6th from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm followed by a service and then military honors at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 111 Glenallen St., Winchendon.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to MSA Coalition, 1660 International Dr., Ste 600, McLean, VA 22102.  

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, and Melissa A. McQuaid, funeral directors.