Peter Giroux: A Lifelong Advocate, Visionary Developer, and Artist

Peter M. Giroux, 73, recently lost his battle with cancer on March 19, 2025. He was born on May 6, 1951, to Ronald and Vernette Giroux of Waterville, Maine.

Peter is survived by his husband, Leonard E. Lavoie, 78, and his siblings: John Giroux and his wife Betty, and Paul Giroux. He was predeceased by his parents, Ronald and Vernette, as well as his brother, Leon, and sister, Gloria.

Peter lived his life as a dedicated professional and passionate advocate for the community, building a legacy of compassion and creativity through tireless work that helped shape the City of Pawtucket's arts scene and the lives of those he encountered.

Peter's life took an unexpected and transformative turn in 1986 when, while working as a caseworker for the State of Maine, he met Len Lavoie, a client seeking assistance in moving his mother into a nursing home. Their chance encounter blossomed into both a personal and business partnership that spanned over 38 years. In 2013, when Rhode Island legalized same-sex marriage, Peter and Len celebrated their love by marrying, cementing a relationship built on mutual respect, deep affection, and unwavering support.

As a couple, they shared their lives with several furry companions, starting with Bubba, a beloved beagle. This was followed by a cockapoo named “Red Dog,” and then Moose, an older Shih Tzu rescue who brought joy and comfort into their home.

Len, who admired Peter’s kindness and thoughtfulness from the very beginning, often took the lead in preparing meals, while Peter, an expert baker, delighted in crafting exquisite desserts. Peter’s love for fine dining was clear in his preference for oysters and sushi, and he found great joy in dining at small, family-owned restaurants. But Peter's passions extended far beyond the kitchen. A gifted artist, he worked with oils and was also a sculptor who created wood carvings. His creativity was matched by his love for culture. He and Len frequently visited museums in Rhode Island and Boston, attending exhibitions by artists like Henri Matisse, Renoir, and Salvador Dalí.

Peter and Len also shared a love for travel. They journeyed to Europe, from the sun-kissed shores of Spain to the historic beauty of Portugal. Yet, their favorite trips were those closer to home, exploring the rugged coast of Maine. Over the years, they traveled from the New Hampshire border to the Canadian border, discovering the hidden gems of Maine's quaint fishing villages.

As an avid gardener, Peter took great pride in tending to the many plants that filled their apartment and adorned their porch. Much like the couple’s love for one another, the plants flourished under his attentive care. One of Peter and Len’s most cherished hobbies was kite flying, a pursuit they took up 18 years ago. What began with a simple kite grew into a collection of over 65 kites, some of which were larger than a car. Their prized possession, a 110-foot-long snake kite, became a testament to their shared passions and whimsical spirit.

Throughout their time together, Peter and Len were deeply involved in the economic and cultural evolution of Pawtucket. They witnessed the decline of the textile industry and the departure of the jewelry industry, but they played an instrumental role in the city's remarkable revitalization.

Peter and Len’s Providence-based real estate company, Rhode Island Commercial Industry Realty (RICIR), spearheaded the redevelopment of 27 mill buildings in Pawtucket and Providence, breathing new life into these historic structures. For over two decades, they worked tirelessly to transform these iconic mill buildings into thriving spaces for artists, designers, manufacturers, and entrepreneurs. Their efforts, often behind the scenes, were crucial to the success of hundreds of tenants and contributed significantly to the local economy.

The impact they had on Pawtucket and the surrounding communities is immeasurable. Their dedication to improving the community, fostering creativity, and preserving the historical charm of the mills was evident in every project they undertook. As a dynamic duo, their work ethic and vision for the future not only transformed the city but also enriched the lives of everyone they touched.

Peter, ever the meticulous planner, handled the paperwork, scheduling, and computer work, while Len oversaw the renovation of the mills and managed the day-to-day operations. Together, they placed hundreds of tenants each year in Pawtucket mills, a figure that remained consistently high over the years.

Peter’s life improved the spirit and energy of the Rhode Island community. His legacy remains a gift that will continue to inspire and bless all of us as we move forward with him embedded in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Peter's name to Adopt A Pet - Friends of Homeless Animals of RI  

fohari.org