North Shore Leaders React To Death Of Pete Frates

BEVERLY, MA — The death of Pete Frates Monday brought an outpouring of tributes from leaders in North Shore communities. Frates, the former Boston College baseball player best known for popularizing the "Ice Bucket Challenge" after being diagnosed with ALS, lived in Beverly and graduated from St. John's Prep in Danvers in 2003.

"Pete Frates was a fighter and a patriot who challenged America to confront ALS. Rather than retreating from the national spotlight to manage his illness, he rallied the country around funding medical research through the Ice Bucket Challenge," Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA) said. "He will be long remembered for his humor, his strength, and his courage. What a hero he was to me and so many others."

St. John's Headmaster Ed Hardiman said it had been a "blessing" to know Frates. "It is now a privilege, honor and duty to carry on his legacy at" St. John's Prep, Hardiman said.

Pete Frates ’03, whose ALS fight inspired the world, passed away today surrounded by his family due to complications from the disease. Said Dr. Hardiman: “Pete will always be an amazing role model of resilience, perseverance, and servant leadership.” https://t.co/TKZAWyS0AP pic.twitter.com/a6XBbs4KsO

— St. John's Prep (@stjohnsprep) December 9, 2019

Beverly Police Chief John LeLacheur turned to Twitter to ask the public to give the Frates family time to grieve. "The entire Beverly Police Department and citizens of Beverly want to express our sincere condolences on the passing of Beverly’s Pete Frates," LeLacheur said.

At Endicott College in Beverly, where Frates's mothers, Nancy has served on the board of trustees since 2016, President Steven R. DiSalvo called Frates "a true gift."

We lost one of the most awe-inspiring leaders this generation has ever known. Pete Frates is more than just a name. He is a movement; a role model; a true gift. My thoughts are with the Frates family as Nancy has served on the @EndicottCollege Board of Trustees since 2016. pic.twitter.com/kJuvFuRlpC

— Steven R. DiSalvo, Ph.D. (@Dr_DiSalvo) December 9, 2019

At-Large Beverly City Councilor Julie Flowers said Frates "touched and changed our community."