In Memory of Peter St.Onge

My former spouse and dearest friend was Peter's high school art teacher. His art was on the walls of our home and inspired us deeply. To Peter's family, god bless you. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Mark

Peter touched my daughter, Ashley Burke's heart. Every time she spoke of him it was always about how nice he was and how funny he was. He always made her laugh. Peter will we missed by Ashley and all of her friends. He will always be in our hearts.

There are so many precious memories that will live in my heart forever. I will always be touched by Peter's warm and gentle spirit. I was honored and blessed to have known him and so happy to receive his warm whenever I saw him. I hold dear the painting I fell in love with while visiting Chela one Friday morning on one of our coffee dates. It was a lovely whimsical watercolor of a nymph with long red hair that I just had to have. As usual the dining table was graced with a stack he had painted the day or two before. I told Chela to let Peter know when he came home from Forrestdale that I wished to have it. He was 11 or 12. When I came back later in the day and told him I wanted to buy it he bashfully told me to please take it and that he didn't want any money from me. I said I could not take it unless he took a payment since it was a real piece of art and as worthy of an investment as any I could think of... I know to this day that he never did cash that check...he told me many times that he still had it and he cherished it. He was to me the kindest and most generous person who will probably ever touch my live...and a beautiful artist. My heart is with his beautiful family. Thank you Nicholas for this site.

I have always wanted to meet you, Peter and I'm so sad I never have gotten to. I have heard nothing but awesome and incredible things about you. I am friends with Nicholas and I feel that I have met and known Peter through Nick because from the way it sounds they are a lot alike. Even though I have never met Peter face to face I still love him for being who he was. For being Nick's brother and best friend. I wish I got to know you more. Rest in peace. -Krista

Chela, I had only met your Peter on a couple of occasions.And being your son, his wonderful smile and warmth I know, has touched many people. I consider myself lucky to have met him. We wish you nothing but peace.Love you, Robin and Frank M.

Pete brought so much joy and pleasure to our lives that is far too difficult to express. For the past two years he was the brother my daughter never had. We loved him dearly as her roommate and always marvelled at his brilliance and talent. He gave us so much - including 2 beautiful cups he created that we love. It is too soon for the world to lose Pete's talent, whit, generosity and kindness. So we will have to carry his spirit on for him. Thank you Nick for this opportunity to be heard. Thank you to all his cherished family for bringing him to others. Roy and Kerry

When I think of Peter I think of the extraordinary love and kindness he showed to all, especially his family and Graciela. Whenever I met up with him, he always greeted me with the warmest smile and most heartfelt words. He was one of the most beautiful and loving young men I have ever met. His personality was as brilliant as his art. George, Chela, Nick and Graciela, we love you all. Fran, Gene, Marissa & Claire

As one of Pete's high school art teachers, I had the great pleasure of witnessing some of the most beautiful, creative ideas come to life. Pete was one of the most genuine, talented students I have ever encountered. Everyone that had the pleasure of working with Pete will forever remember him, and every time I look at the piece of art he gave me when he graduated high school , I will think of him and how lucky I was to have known him.

"Even though I may have never met you, laughed with you, cried with you, or kissed you. I love you. With all my heart, I love you."

I am shocked and deeply saddened by Peter's passing. I feel compelled to share with his family how he touched my life in a way that they would never have known. I served in the art room at the HS during two different maturnity leaves, around the time of Peter's junior and senior years. We could all speak of Peter's incredible, most amazing creative talent, his thought provoking and highly developed skills beyond his years but most importantly, I must say that he was the most kind, respectful student that I was so fortunate to have met. Everyday he welcomed me in such a sincere, mature way. He took the time to know me. (Not just another sub) He inquired about my art background in such an interested and edifying way. He was always open to guidance of which he really needed very little of. His creative process and vision for his work seemed always so focussed and clear. I know that Peter was a gift to his family and friends...... He certainly was to me and I will be grateful always for having known him for such a short yet special time. I pray that his family will be comforted in time with the most beautiful legacy of all his work and most of all for the exceptional, loving person he was and will always be remembered for. My deepest love and sympathy, Deborah Sparling

Dear Chela, George, Nick and Graciela, please know that our prayers are with you at this most difficult time. You are loved by many and your anguish is shared by all. I wish I had more recent memories to share, but I fondly remember him as a sweet, playful, and very helpful boy, when Chela & I did our SPUR stuff. Our love to you all. Joanne & Doug

I know that we all keep hearing this over and over again, but we're all saying it because it's true...I was a classmate of Pete's at RFH for four years and though I didn't know him well I know that Peter was simply one of the nicest people I've ever known. That we've all ever known. Friendly, kind, and mature beyond his years. Kate McLaughlin

Out of the four of us who spent every free moment we could in Lanfrank and Okeson's rooms--there was never any doubt Pete would be the one to make it as an artist. His talent was astounding and he was always so modest about it. We were staples in those art rooms. I could count on seeing Pete's smiling face bent over his latest work as much as I could count on the fact some kid jacked the supplies I needed the period before. I looked forward to our reunion (which doesn't seem as far away as it once did) because it meant I would get to hear all the amazing stories about solo shows in the city, creative projects in the works, and life in general. I can't believe Pete won't be there. Pete, you are already terribly missed and my heart goes out to the St. Onge family. -Liz

I want you to know how truely touched and sorry I am to hear about the loss of Peter. I have such fond memories of him and your family.I'd like to share an artistic memory that I vividly recall, which had taken place some years ago. As you know I treated Peter and your family for years. Peter had to be between 10 and 12 years old at the time. It was obvious that he was blessed with a creative artistic gift.Each visit I had opportunity to see Peter,he would bring to the office the most incredible detailed playdough figures that he had created. They were very small but original and specific from eyes, fingers, clothes and belt buckles. I will never forget those wonderful creations. Most of all I will never forget Peter. My sincere condolences on your loss.I would love the opportunity to talk with you guys when the circumstance is right.Dr. Daniel A. Kutschman

I met Peter when he was a senior in high school, I was a freshmen. I remember he and a few other older art students would come into the art room and work during my Art 1 class. I could only look on with extreme admiration and honor as he painted, printed, or drew. I considered Peter St. Onge to be a huge inspiration in my life as a person and an artist. As many have said before me, he was kind to all, annoying little freshmen included. At one point he was working on what I remember as an oil painting, it was of a farmer, a man in a straw hat, the background was amazing, but more amazing was being able to watch the painting transform every time I walked in the art room. At the end of his senior year, Peter along with other talented senior artists, had a show and I was not at all surprised to learn that he would be attending Rhode Island School of Design in the fall. Being an art student myself, I understood that this was one of, if not the best art school in the country. So, when I was sophomore, I visited RISD, and very unlikely, but luckily I ran into Peter. He gave me a few moments of his time to tell me about the food, the campus, the work load etc. He made me feel welcome, as I am sure a lot of college students would not want to be caught dead in a pool of high schoolers taking a tour. This brilliance and talent can still be seen through his brother Nicholas, who I look up to as an artist as well as a person, care-free, happy-go-lucky as he is. I will never forget the effect Peter's art work has had upon me (not only as a freshmen, but because Peter was so incredibly talented his art teachers kept his work and always made sure to show the future generations what they must aspire to) and I will never forget the kindness he showed me and my peers. I am honored to have known him, and am so happy that everyone can see this website and view his artwork. MSS

I teased Peter about our loyalty to Nicholas, a fellow SVA student. His smile was electric, it came from his eyes, his heart. Graziella has Peter in her embrace, I know it. He is at peace and eternal joy, exactly as I remember him, smiling. We are left with the pain of missing Peter but he is safe with Graziella and Tom and our Lord Jesus Christ. Love to Nicholas, Graziella, Chela and George Dina Smyth

I didn't know him well, at all. I just remember seeing him around campus, but I can't help but feel the most sincere regret at his passing. I wish I'd had the courage to talk to him and find out for myself the type of artist and friend he could be. My deepest, deepest condolences go out to his family and friends, to all those people who knew him better, but also to the people on the periphery of his life, like me, who could sense from afar the calibre of his character.

We are so sorry for the death of Peter. We will keep Peter and his family in our payers. It is honorable that Peter will be able to help others live by organ donation.

My deepest sympathy to the Smith & StOnge families.

Even as I small child I knew Peter was a gifted artist. When most kids his age were drawing stick figures, he would whip out very intricate drawings with stories behind them. Beyond that Peter was a kind and gentle person who had a special aura about him. He will be dearly missed and he has left his mark on the world that goes well beyond a person of the tender age of 22. Janet Rivera

I am completely stunned that our world could have lost you, Peter. You had just graduated from RISD and I was there at the podium to shake your hand. With each shake of the hand of each graduate, I felt the great hopes for the future of art and design resting with your class. We remember you here at RISD Peter. -John Maeda

I was just casually going about my daily routine of catching up on blog posts on Google Reader and read about Pete on the RISD blog. I am so sorry to hear, and I am deeply saddened. There was definitely a sudden pang in my heart... I was in Bill's acting class with Pete my spring semester of our junior year. Pete was a great actor (and I'm pretty darn sure a wonderful artist), and it was some good times in that class. Afterwards, I'd always see him at Carr Haus where I worked and would chat with him whenever I saw him. He was always a pleasure to see because he was always smiling. I'd always secretly stuff more stuff into sandwiches of people I liked, and he was one of them. I wish his family all peace of minds and hearts. - Kayoung

The Sunflower Cafe...Nagle's...Zoe's... too many diners to recall. Lots of coffee, lots of laughs and lots of making fun of everyone. I'm sure Peter loved our "Thursday lunch with the girls" because he never missed one when he was home. From the first time I nervously held him as a newborn, to the last time I hugged him as a college graduate, I knew he was different. Peter had a warmth when he smiled, just like his grandmother, a glow that drew people to him. That smile came from the heart just like the kindness he practiced. You could trust him. You could love him, I know I did. I'm sure there will be lots more lunches with Chela and Mary Kay and I'm sure Peter won't miss a one. You will always be in my heart and thoughts. Love, Genie

I was lucky to have the great privilege and pleasure to work closely with Peter in my time at RISD. He was an exceptionally talented artist and clearly a very dedicated friend, truly one of the RISD community's finest. Without an ounce of doubt I believe his future as an artist was bright; this unfortunate and shocking news is clearly the world's great loss. With love and respect, ~Johnny Adimando

I was also one of Peter's classmates as I went to Forrestdale and RFH with him. I moved to the area in 4th grade, and he was in my 4th grade class. Even back then he was incredibly talented! He was always kind and generous to everyone around him, and I was deeply saddened when I heard about his passing. My prayers and thoughts go out to his family and friends. He is deeply missed. - SEC

I found out yesterday about Peter's death. I had been away at camp and had lost touch. I don't know why my parents didn't call me and tell me there. But I'm glad they didn't. I sobbed a long time for my cousin, for the one I would always jokingly call "wolverine" when he grew out his beard, for an artist, for a person that is to be dearly missed at Thanksgiving, at Christmas and all through our lives. I sobbed for someone I loved. Peter will ever remain in my memories, in my heart and in my soul. -Isabella St. Onge

Such a wonderful, talented, charming kid. Was secretly hoping one of the St.Onge boys would take up with my beautiful daughter Diana. She liked both of you very much. I've known you mother since we were kids.It's still hard to grasp that something this awful happened to such a fine family. Please let me know if she is up to a chat or a lunch date, or going horseback riding. I can't offer my comfort but have a shoulder to cry on. Jane Meggitt

I am a friend of your Dad's from high school. Please let him know that our family is keeping you all in our hearts int this very sad time. Judi Connelly

George - my thoughts are with you and your family during this very rough and trying time. I did not know your son; but from what I have read about him; he must have been a remarkable man. May his memory never leave your hearts. KHassold

I do not have any memories about Peter, however, My life and my family's lives have all been inter-twined in many ways throught the years. My heart goes out to all of you and we often wonder why? You are all in my thoughts and prayers. What a wonderful way to have a tribute to your son, brother, nephew, grandson! I will keep you in my prayers. With much love and thanks for knowing such a special family, Cindy Hassold Ruggiero (formerly Field), Karee's sister, Devon's mother.

One of my favorite Carr Haus customers. Thanks for that warm smile and patience whenever I got your order wrong. You will be missed. -Monica

Pete, I'm trying to think of where to begin...just so many good memories. I actually met you at your going away party thrown by the Borges family the summer before you were a sophomore and I was a freshman in high school. I remember running into you at the county library a little while later and happily learning that you were staying in Rumson after all. I'm selfishly so glad that you didn't move because you ended up becoming one of my favorite people in the entire world. I was telling your parents that seeing you was like Christmas every time. Impromptu dance parties, prom in Rachael's mini-van, trips to Rumson video with Clark to rent bizarre movies, dinner parties, going to the diner, where we went just the other week, you treated, and I owe you a drink! Pete, I will always miss you, your laugh, your smile, your moves, your wild hair, your movie recommendations, your wittiness, and your incredible talent. It has been such a joy to know you. My love to you and to your family, you are all in my thoughts. Love, Vee

Some of the best memories I have are ones that were shared with Peter. He is an unforgettable person who will always be held close to my heart. - a friend from RISD

Dear Peter's family, Please know you have my sincerest condolences. Pete was the dearest of people. My heart is broken for your loss. In the midst of my sadness, I try to concentrate on feelings of gratitude for knowing Pete and the gifts I received from him. I am very grateful for the immense friendship he shared with my daughter Caroline at RISD. She calls him her creative muse; he was always there helping her at every turn with a ready hug. They inspired each other and I know she will honor his memory through her art which is all the more creative for knowing him. Because of Pete, I am inspired to bring forth a smile to every person I meet as he did. Pete had a beautiful spirit and I believe all beautiful spirits who leave this world congregate in a better place to continue their passions bringing and finding happiness and peace. I believe this for Pete, I think of him still on his creative path only elsewhere. I feel truly blessed to have known Pete and am extremely sad that he is not here with us now, but grateful for how much he gave in friendship to Caroline and generous smiles to us all. Thank you, Pete. With much sympathy and love, Sarah Hawn

I really liked you. You were just a great kid. So considerate and sweet to everyone around you. You were a class act and your spirit will be deeply missed.

I was deeply saddened to hear of Peter's untimely death. As a Freshman at RISD Peter was a student of mine who I remember very fondly still. I was so happy to have run into him on campus two years ago, and to see him so much at home here and happy. He was a gifted, creative man, and an inspiration to me as well as his fellow students. I shall miss him. Nicholas Evans-Cato, RISD Foundation Studies

i didn't know peter, but i knew of him. i really admired him to say the least. peter was different from most people at our high school and he embraced every moment. i envied this quality. he wasnt afraid to be outside the box, actually i would like to say he was never really was inside of it. he was who he wanted to be and wasn't afraid of it. the world will truly miss peter, and it needs more people like him.

Peter, I keep thinking about you. I still can't believe you're gone. You are so special.