Peter T. Bettencourt died peacefully at his home in Edgartown on Thursday, April 13 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 65. Like everything in his life, he fought cancer 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.

He 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 U.S. 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 was a diehard Boston sports fan and loved to watch boxing. He was happiest watching games on Sunday and the Sox on summer afternoons, and never tired of watching the Patriots win in Super Bowl 51.

He 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, Daniel Bettencourt and his sister in law Mary Jane Bettencourt.

In lieu of services, a celebration of Pete’s life will be held on Saturday April 22 at 12 p.m. at his house, 20 Whaler’s Walk in Edgartown. All all who knew him are welcome to stop by and share their favorite story about Pete.

Remembrances can be made to the MV Arena, P.O. Box 2062, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568, in the name of Peter Bettencourt, to help with the renovation.