Peter B Wilcox

Peter Bell Wilcox, 69, died peacefully on February 18 of cancer. He grew up in Holden, and graduated from Wachusett Regional High School. He played football, held the lead role in the senior class musical production, and was well known for his entertaining good humor. He attended Johnson State College in Vermont studying theater and dance. Peter continued his interest in theatre holding lead roles in productions at The Theater Workshop of Nantucket, Smith College Theater, and the Worcester County Light Opera Company. 

Peter worked a variety of jobs, most often as landscaper, and was an enthusiastic volunteer for the Worcester Tree Initiative, all while courageously navigating the challenges of schizophrenia. 

Peter loved his family and his many friends, including the social workers who helped him over the years. He was gregarious and kind, and always loved to get others laughing.  By example, he taught us patience, discipline, forgiveness, and thoughtfulness.  He was a poet, a lover of Jesus, and practiced the martial art of nunchaku. He was an avid skier and outdoorsman, and loved his visits to Vermont and Nantucket.

Peter leaves his mother Elsie Underhill of Norwood, his sister, Ki Johnson (Hal) of Ft. Collins, CO, three brothers, Sanford Kendall of Nantucket, Thomas Wilcox (Cynthia) of Dedham, Christopher Wilcox (Cinthia) of Morrisville, VT  and 10 nieces and nephews whom he adored. He is predeceased by his father, James T. Wilcox, and his long time, loyal friend, Rosalie Borek.  Special thanks to all the support people who enabled Peter to live a meaningful and independent life.

A memorial service will be held on April 1 at 12:00 at St. Mark's Episcopal Church. His ashes will be interred alongside his father’s at the St. Francis Episcopal Church Memorial Garden in Holden. 

In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to either: Saint Marks Episcopal Church, Zero Freeland Street, Worcester, MA 01603; or The Genesis Club House, 274 Lincoln Street, Worcester, MA 01605.