Army reservist who was an avid history buff
MELROSE — Mr. Peter B. Grant, a longtime resident of Melrose, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Monday, March 18 at the age of 81.
Peter was born in Winchester on October 10, 1942, the youngest of four children of the late Roger originally of Clonmany, Donegal Ireland and Julia (Traynor) Grant originally of Omeath, Louth Ireland. Raised in Medford, he graduated from Gate of Heaven High School in South Boston, Class of 1960 and later from St. Anselm College, class of 1967. Peter was an Army reservist and served as a Special Agent in The Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs until finally being hired as a Special Agent in The United States Secret Service in 1974, where he faithfully served for over 30 years.
Peter married his beloved wife Martha Whalen that same year. Together they enjoyed traveling and exploring the world being stationed through his work in Washington, D.C.; Miami, FL; Paris, France; Boston; and Albuquerque, NM, finally returning to Melrose to raise their family.
Peter enjoyed summers on the Cape and Martha’s Vineyard and spending long days on the beach with his family and friends. Peter was happiest surrounded by his family especially his many nieces and nephews whom he adored. Peter loved all things Irish and was an avid history buff. He had an almost encyclopedic knowledge of military history particularly WW2. Most nights, Peter could be found relaxing with a military history book in one hand and a Coca Cola in the other.
Extremely kind and always generous Peter personified determination and perseverance throughout his life. He will be remembered as a devoted family man and a distinguished Secret Service Agent whose unwavering love and dedication to both family and country greatly inspired all who knew him.
Peter was the beloved husband of Martha A. (Whalen) Grant with whom he shared nearly 50 years of marriage. Devoted father of Kara Grant and Lauren Grant, both of Melrose. Dear brother of Sally Goulding and her late husband Hugh of Medford; Kathleen Flynn and her surviving husband Edward; and the late Roger Grant and his late wife Ann. Also survived by his many beloved nieces, nephews and dear friends.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to gather in honor of Peter’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Friday, March 22 from 4 to 8 p.m. and again on Saturday morning at 8:45 a.m. before leaving in procession to St. Joseph’s Church, 118 High St., Medford for his funeral Mass celebrated at 10 a.m. Interment at Highland Meadow Cemetery, Belmont. For online tribute, please visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
