About Pete
Peter Joseph Frasso, Jr. was a devoted son, brother, fiancé, father-to-be, educator, musician, and friend whose passion for music and generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Born in Boston and raised in Massachusetts, Pete graduated from Westford Academy before attending the University of Notre Dame, where he earned his bachelor's degree in music. As a proud member of the Notre Dame Marching Band, Pete played the tuba and cherished the friendships, traditions, and unforgettable experiences that came with being part of the Fighting Irish family.
After Notre Dame, Pete earned a master's degree in Music Education from VanderCook College of Music in Chicago. He went on to teach middle and high school music in Indiana, sharing his enthusiasm for music with countless students before returning to VanderCook College as its Outreach Coordinator. Following more than fifteen years in the Midwest, Pete returned home to Massachusetts to be closer to his family. He later began a new career in materials management, ultimately serving as a Materials Manager for Corindus/Siemens in Waltham.
Outside of work, Pete embraced life with curiosity, humor, and enthusiasm. He was an avid baseball card collector who loved organizing his extensive collection, completing sets, and collecting memorabilia from his favorite teams—the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots. He enjoyed an occasional round of golf, loved browsing Ocean State Job Lot, and could always be counted on to quote Saturday Night Live, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Family Guy, or Brian Butterfield with perfect timing.
What people remember most, however, wasn't a hobby or a favorite television show. It was Pete himself. He had an infectious laugh that filled every room, a gift for making people smile with his silly voices and impressions, and a kindness and generosity that defined the way he lived. He was thoughtful, dependable, intelligent, and always willing to help others.
In 2020, Pete and his fiancée, Alyssa, purchased their first home in Haverhill and began building the life they had dreamed of together. Pete took great pride in their new home and was excitedly renovating it in preparation for the arrival of their first child, Piper.
On January 6, 2021, Pete passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at the age of 40, just months before Piper was born. Although his life was far too short, the impact he had on his family, friends, students, and community continues to be felt every day.
The Peter J. Frasso, Jr. Memorial Scholarship was established to honor Pete's lifelong love of music, his commitment to education, and the generosity that defined his character. Each scholarship awarded carries forward the values he lived by, helping Haverhill High School graduates who share a passion for music pursue their college education and reminding us that Pete's legacy continues through every student whose life is touched by this fund.