Peter Vincent Ciampa, of Lexington, September 4, 2021, age 58, began every day with gusto, a smile and enthusiasm for life. Pete looked forward to enjoying the many activities he participated in, his career life and working around his newly constructed home in Lexington.  He loved to plan ahead for the many home projects he wanted to accomplish.

Peter was physically fit and proud of the extensive gym and woodworking spaces he had created in his home. He avidly studied workout routines so he could improve his fitness. Indeed, he was a 3rd degree black belt instructor  at the New England Small Circle Jujitsu Academy in Woburn. Pete spent the last 24 years there doing what he loved. He was known for his caring, quiet and patient demeanor instructing  new students. He is missed by all at NESCJ and will forever be in their hearts.

Pete's work life brought him tremendous joy. For the past 21 years he dedicated his life to the LABBB Collaborative Program for special ability students. He touched so many students and staff at LABBB and went above and beyond for the organization.   Pete has left LABBB with a legacy of caring and compassion.

It is incomprehensible that Peter passed away from this world on September 4, 2021 after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest. Pete was at his Jujitsu Dojo and collapsed.  Our family is deeply grateful for the extraordinary efforts given to Peter by Woburn EMT's and Winchester Hospital Emergency Room staff, particularly Dr. Calvin Lee.

Peter leaves behind a broken-hearted family and close group of friends and co-workers. He is survived by his sister Cynthia Savage and her husband Lester of Lexington,  his niece Kelsey Savage and her husband Kevin Kallmyer of Taipei, Taiwan, his nephews Lester Savage of Boston and Harrison Savage of Greensboro, North Carolina. He is predeceased by his mom, Barbara ( McNally) Ciampa and father Vincent Ciampa.

Peter had two lifelong friends who shared many memorable times and laughs together since middle school growing up in Lexington. Both Brian Curran of Leominster and Paul Earsy of Lexington were loyal, devoted companions. Brothers to the end, Pete was lucky to have them by his side in life.

Peter met Johnathan Flannery over a decade ago when Jon was a student at LABBB. For many years and up until Pete's passing,  Pete visited Jon regularly and was a great friend. Jon was a very special and important person to Peter.

In 1981 Peter was a recipient of the Moretti Award from the Lexington Sons of Italy.  The award is presented to a Lexington high school football player who best exemplifies the qualities of loyalty,  dedication and perseverance.  Legendary Lexington High School football coach Bill Tighe commended Peter that championship season:

" I love having this kind of player on the team. Peter is only 5 foot five, 134 lbs,  but he played on a lot of special teams, both kicking and receiving. It's not the size of the dog that counts, but the bite."

United States Marine Corp member 1982-1987, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine, 3rd Division,  Platoon 3018, Rifleman.  Masters Degree in Counseling Framingham State College, Special Olympics and Big Brother Organization volunteer. Master carpenter and creator of many cherished woodworking pieces he took great care to make for many families.

"First one in, last one out"  personifies  how Peter lived his life - A full life with many blessings.

Memorial Service: Saturday,  October 2nd, 10:30a.m. First Parish Church Harrington Road,  Lexington. Service will be held outdoors under tents, rain or shine.

Please honor Pete's legacy with an act of kindness every day and offer a helping hand to others in need, especially those with special abilities.  Donations may be made to:

LABBB Collaborative

123 Cambridge Street

Burlington, MA. 01803