Peter T. Bettencourt, husband, father, grandfather, friend, and Marine, died peacefully at his home in Edgartown on Thursday, April 13, 2017, at the age of 65. He died after a courageous battle with cancer, which like everything in his life he fought head-on, never losing his unique character and sense of humor. Despite his gruff exterior, people knew him to be caring, honest, straightforward (sometimes to a fault), and as a man who always stood by his convictions. He was dearly loved, and will be greatly missed by many.
Pete was born in Edgartown on Sept. 20, 1951, to Manuel and Olma (Gill) Bettencourt. He was a graduate of Edgartown High School, after which he went on to serve his country in the Marine Corps. After his service, he returned to Martha’s Vineyard, and worked for many years at Donaroma’s as the landscape foreman, before going out on his own and starting Bettencourt Irrigation and Landscaping.
Pete is survived by his wife of 41 years, Susan Bettencourt; sons and daughters-in-law Daniel and Cassandra Bettencourt of Wellesley, Timothy Bettencourt and Danielle Gremeaux of Edgartown, and Gregory Bettencourt of Edgartown; and by his loving grandson Nash Bettencourt. He is also survived by his brothers Michael Bettencourt of Edgartown and Bruce Bettencourt of Tierra Verde, Fla., and his sister Noreen Bettencourt of Edgartown. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers John Bettencourt and Daniel Bettencourt, and his sister-in-law Mary Jane Bettencourt.
Pete was a diehard Boston sports fan, and loved to watch boxing. Pete was happiest watching games on Sunday and the Sox on summer afternoons, and never tired of watching the Patriots win in Super Bowl 51.
In lieu of services, a celebration of Pete’s life will be held on Saturday, April 22, at 12 pm at his house, 20 Whaler’s Walk in Edgartown. All who knew Pete are welcome to stop by and share their favorite story about him.
Remembrances may be made to the Martha’s Vineyard ice Arena, P.O. Box 2062, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568, with the note “in memory of Peter Bettencourt,” to help with the renovation.
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