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Peter Church Obituary
He also leaves 2 sons: Nathan P. Church and Kelvin A. Church, both of Millbury; his mother, Betty A. (Sieurin) Church of Charlton; his sister, Ellen M. Carlson of South Dartmouth; his 2 brothers: Arthur N. Church of Waltham and Stephen M. Church of Auburn; uncles, aunts, and several nephews and nieces. His father, Richard E. Church, M.D., died in 2002.
Peter was born on April 2, 1955 in Worcester, and was raised in Millbury. He was a 1972 graduate of Millbury Memorial High School and he earned a bachelor's degree from Worcester State College in 1978. In 1982, he earned two master's degrees in geology and hydrology from the University of Wisconsin at Madison.
Peter first worked for a short time as a hydrologist for the U.S Army Corps of Engineers in Vicksburg, MS. He then was hired by the U.S. Geological Survey and had worked as a hydrologist in their Northborough office since 1984.
His memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, October 14, in the First Congregational Church of Sutton, Boston Road on the Common. A visiting hour in the church will be held from 10 to 11 AM before the service. In lieu of flowers, donations in Peter's memory may be made to the Peter E. Church Scholarship Fund, c/o the Citizens' Scholarship Foundation of Millbury, P.O. Box 361, Millbury, MA 01527.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Peter Church
Forest Lyford
October 24, 2006
Dear Diane and family,
I was deeply saddened to learn of Peter’s death when my wife and I returned from a trip to Bulgaria where we were visiting our son. I wish I could have joined my colleagues from USGS as they honored our former colleague. As you know, Peter and I worked closely for several years on sampling technologies that Peter documented in several widely cited publications. We also worked together on several other water-resources projects over the years. It was always a pleasure working with someone with his cooperative attitude, professional integrity, and work ethic. Those who worked with Peter could always count on high-quality products. I also enjoyed the times when we shared stories about our early years as carpenters. We all felt agonizingly helpless as we watched Peter’s health gradually deteriorate over the last several years and can only imagine the heartache and pain that you and your family must have felt.
I will miss Peter but will cherish the memories of a close colleague and good person.
Sincerely,
Forest Lyford
George McInerny
October 17, 2006
Steve,
I am so sorry to hear about Peter passing. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. I will remember him with that quiet smile on his face and that sense of humor he always had. We will miss him very much. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
God bless you,
George McInerny and Family
Pete Steeves
October 13, 2006
Our office is deeply saddened by the loss of Peter Church. A fellow USGS employee commented to me the other day that a large percentage of the office employees were either hired by Peter or first worked on his projects. All these empolyees (at least 9) continue to be instrumental (like Peter was) in the success of this agency which is a testament to Peter's insight and belief in others. Peter connected with all walks of life here in the office. He will be missed.
Bruce Hansen
October 12, 2006
Peter’s perseverance and upbeat attitude at work during his long battle with physical adversity was a beacon and inspiration to me and all who worked with him. Now he’s probably the chief operating engineer on the biggest and best model railroad ever.
Mike
October 11, 2006
Diane, Nathan, Kelvin, and family:
May Peter's smile and warmth be with you and comfort you now and always. He was a man I was proud to call a friend and my good fortune to have crossed paths with.
May God comfort and bless you.
Chip Davis
October 11, 2006
Nathan, Diane and Kevin,
Our family is sadden to hear about the lost of Peter. Our prayers are with you. He was always a gentleman and had a great sense of humor. He will be missed.
Chuck, Sandy, Chip and Stephanie Davis
Wayne Sonntag
October 11, 2006
Diane, Nathan and Kelvin,
All of us here at the USGS wish to express our deep sorrow at Peter's passing.
Peter was one of those people that didn't feel it necessary to show off their talents. But for those of us who worked with Peter, his talent, insightfulness, sense of humor, and consideration for others shone through without question. We could always depend on Peter no matter what! And all of us admired his tenacity and toughness as he battled his illness. I think Peter touched us in more ways that we realize, just by showing up, by fighting his illness, and by maintaining his quiet sense of humor. His strength and determination will be missed.
God bless you all.
Bob LeBlanc
October 9, 2006
To The Church Family,
We are saddened to hear about Peter, and send our best wishes to you during these times. Our thoughts are with you.
Bob, Linda, Marie & Julie LeBlanc
Bob LeBlanc
October 9, 2006
Diane,
Although many miles and years have gone by, we've never forgotten our friends from Millbury. Our family mourns your loss, and sends our best thoughts and wishes for you and your family.
Bob, Linda, Marie & Julie LeBlanc
Joe and Carole Ballard
October 9, 2006
Steve,
Sorry to hear about the passing of your brother Peter.
Jan
October 9, 2006
Dianne and Family:
I was so sorry to hear about Peter. I will always remember him as young. I will remember how he loved the outdoors. I know his quiet introspective spirit is still with us. "Do not stand at my gave and weep, I am not there I do not sleep."
October 9, 2006
To Stephen Church and family,
Thinking of you at this time of sorrow. We were very saddened to hear about the death of your Brother Peter. You are in our thoughts. Love, Kim, Harlan, Zachary and Ethan
Jennifer Scampini
October 9, 2006
Diane and family, I am so sorry to hear about Peter. We lost my husband Joe's mother, who was also too young, on Friday night, so we feel your pain. Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. I will miss Peter, you and Simba!! God Bless, Jen Scampini
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