Peter Marquis

Peter Marquis, retired social worker, Reiki master, yoga teacher, and longtime resident of Fitchburg, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully in his beloved home on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, following a short battle with cancer.

Peter’s life was filled with loving friendships, spiritual adventures, and a lifelong passion for learning, especially history, and most predominantly about ancient Egypt, his favorite subject.

He was especially fond of animals and served as a loving caretaker for many over the years, including Bodhi, Kodi, Fritka, and Gracie.

In the early decades of the AIDS crisis, Peter was heavily involved as a local leader in HIV prevention, fundraising, and awareness campaigns, having participated in and organized numerous events, walks, and fundraisers.

He is survived by several family members including his sisters, Cathyann Smith of Athol, MA, and Judith Burke of Gardner, MA. As well, he leaves behind his nieces Lisa Burke of Delanco, NJ, Ann-Marie Ouellet of Gardner, MA and her husband France Ouellet, and nephews Robert Burke and his wife Rhonda Burke of Sarasota, FL, Bradley Smith of Falmouth, MA, and Brian Smith and his wife Katelyn Smith of Fitchburg, MA, great niece Autumn Ouellet and great nephew Michael Ouellet. Peter is also survived by many, many deep and abiding friends, including his housemates for the past 12 years, Wil and Jamie Darcangelo.

Peter was predeceased by his parents, Beatrice (Lashua) Marquis and Walter Marquis, and his niece Julie Burke.

A celebration of Peter’s life will be held on Saturday, September 13, at 2:00 PM, at the First Church in Lancaster, 725 Main St, Lancaster, MA; potluck reception to follow in the church hall. All are welcomed to bring a tale about Peter to share during the service, and something for the potluck. A fire will be lit on the church green, weather permitting, drumming and music are warmly welcomed.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests a donation be made in Peter’s name to the Worcester Animal Rescue League in Worcester, MA.