Share This Article
This September, we as a community mark the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks. This tragic day impacted many communities across the state, including right here in Sudbury, which experienced the loss of 3 members of our Sudbury community and countless others from other towns with connections to the community. This is the first in a three-part series presented by the Sudbury September 11 Memorial Garden Committee in advance of the 25th anniversary of September 11. All are invited to join the town commemoration on Friday, September 11th at 8:30 a.m. at the Memorial Garden in Heritage Park.
Honoring Peter Goodrich: A Life of Passion, Brilliance, and Athletic Grace
When Peter Morgan Goodrich was born on October 1, 1967, it was the very day the Boston Red Sox clinched the pennant—a fitting start for a life defined by quiet determination, energy, a drive to excel and a love for the Red Sox.
Raised in Williamstown, MA, Peter grew up with the unwavering support of his parents, who worked tirelessly to help him navigate early struggles with dyslexia, believing deeply in his potential long before anyone else saw it. He graduated cum laude from Berkshire School in Sheffield, MA in 1985, and Bates College in Lewiston, ME in 1989 with high honors in Math and minors in Physics and Computer Science. At Bates, Peter proved to be as formidably gifted in the classroom as he was on the track capturing six All-American honors in track and field, leaving an indelible mark on the college’s athletic legacy.
It was also at Bates where Peter met the love of his life, Rachel Carr. The couple married in Guilford, CT, in October 1992 and eventually settled in Sudbury. Professionally, Peter brought his sharp mathematical mind and compassionate heart to the tech world, advancing to become the Director of Product Development at MKS after several dedicated years with Software Emancipation Technology.
Tragically, Peter’s life was cut short on September 11, 2001, onboard United Airlines Flight 175, at the age of 33. Beyond his remarkable accomplishments, Peter is remembered by his family, friends, and neighbors for his generous spirit, kind heart and love of life. Though his time in Sudbury was far too brief, Peter’s legacy of warmth, excellence, and dedication remains an enduring part of our community.
[Biographical details and family recollections adapted from contemporary memorial records and obituary archives published in The New York Times in 2001.]