Known for his love of laughter and family, he had a passion for cars, motorcycles and music
NORTH READING — Peter J. Lachiana, 84, of North Reading, died on November 3, 2025. He was the beloved husband of the late Valerie (Miller). Father of Lisa Buckley of North Reading, Peter and his companion Stacy Blaisdell of Washington, Valerie DiMare and her husband Robert of Haverhill, Debbie Sicotte and her husband Thomas of New Hampshire, and Lynnelle Lachiana and her companion Michael Doherty of Malden. Grandfather of Nicole, Michael, Jeremy, Sean, Cole, Patrick, Liam, Timothy, Derek, Emily, Audrey and Matthew. Great-grandfather of Caleb, Charlotte and Sebastian.
Peter’s story is one of warmth, humor, and deep family connections. Born on February 1, 1941 in East Boston and later settling in Chelsea’s Mill Hill, he was an only child. Growing up, Peter worked alongside his father, co-owning Pete’s Oil for many years, a venture that gave him not only a strong work ethic but also a sense of pride in providing for his family. Later, he took on a new role, driving a cab for Chelsea Square Cab Company, where he became a familiar and friendly face to the local community.
Known for his love of laughter, Peter had a sharp wit and was always ready with a joke or a funny story. Peter had a passion for cars and motorcycles, something that brought him immense joy throughout his life. But perhaps the most important chapter began in 1966, when he met Valerie, the love of his life, on Revere Beach. Their connection was immediate, and together they built a family of five children.
A true enthusiast of music, Peter had a special place in his heart for Elvis Presley and the golden oldies. Whether at home or on the road, you could always count on him to be belting out a tune, with Elvis songs often filling the air. When he wasn’t singing, you could find Peter watching his favorite Westerns or wrestling matches with his loyal dog, Allie, by his side.
In his later years, Peter moved to New Hampshire to live with one of his daughters, where he enjoyed going to flea markets or car shows, and eventually to North Reading to be with his oldest daughter. It was in North Reading that he truly felt embraced by his new community. He became a beloved figure at the North Reading Senior Center, where he forged many meaningful friendships. It was there that Peter’s sense of humor and warmth won over everyone he met. In fact, he was even crowned prom king at the Senior Prom, an honor that reflected the joy and affection people had for him.
Peter’s heart swelled with pride for his children, his 12 grandchildren, and his three great-grandchildren. His family was his everything, and while he may have had a tough exterior at times, those who knew him best understood that he was a man of deep affection, compassion, and love. He felt immense joy in being surrounded by his loved ones.
Peter will be missed deeply. His memory will live on through his family, his friends, and all those whose lives he touched along the way.
His funeral service will be held in the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St. (corner of Park St. and Rte. 28), North Reading, at Reading line, on Thursday, November 6 at 1 p.m. Relatives and friends may visit at the funeral home prior to the service from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Interment will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery, Everett. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.cotafuneral.com.