'We've lost a legend" - heartbreaking tributes paid to 'true gentleman' Pete Marquis after sudden death at 56
“We’ve lost a legend, but your legacy will live on, Pete...”
Hundreds of tributes have been paid to Pete Marquis after the businessman and philanthropist died suddenly, aged 56, at his home in Preston yesterday.
His death has come as a huge shock to his family and many friends, with hundreds of people across the region mourning the loss of a man known for his generosity and larger-than-life personality.
‘One in a million’
Pete’s sister Carol confirmed the sad news of her brother’s death this morning.
“Yesterday, my little brother Pete passed away, suddenly but peacefully at home,” said Carol. “It has come as a massive shock to my sister and myself and all of his hundreds of friends and colleagues.
“I have received so many messages of support and love, proving how my brother was a one in a million person.”
Hundreds of tributes have followed as the Preston and the wider community paid their respects to ‘a local legend’ and ‘a true gentleman’.
‘A Preston legend’
“We are absolutely shocked to hear of the passing of our great friend Pete Marquis,” said scrap dealers QuickStop Metals. “To call him a Preston Legend is somewhat of an understatement.
“I have worked with Pete for many years, on many projects. We’ve pulled down buildings, cut up almost an entire cement works, and many more jobs too.
“Outside of work, Pete was a good friend of mine, and once even helped me put a bridge back up at 3am, that one of my trucks had knocked over.
“He brought cranes, wagons, closed four roads. And charged me £20!
“He did a HUGE amount, for his community, friends , charities, and I am sure his work will be remembered for a long time.
“God Bless you Pete. Rest in peace my pal.”
‘No prouder man of his company , family and friends’
Cargo and freight boss Philip Judge, said: “Taken far too soon, full of energy, full of drive, the kindness and generosity towards the charities you supported was second to none.
“You were always so kind, supportive and encouraging to me, and we always laughed together and helped each other.
“No prouder man of his company, family and friends. I really can’t believe that heaven has opened their gates so early. It just makes the words ‘only the best are taken young ‘ so real.
“RIP Pete Marquis you certainly will never be forgotten, Sir.”
A friend to the farmers
“We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Pete Marquis,” said Parbold Young Farmers.
“We were fortunate enough to welcome Pete to one of our club meetings, where he kindly gave a fascinating talk about his life and career. It was a pleasure to hear his stories, and we are very grateful for the time he took to share them with our members.
“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Pete’s family and friends at this sad time.”
‘Pete would help anyone without a second thought’
Friend Melissa Dean said: “My heart has shattered in two. The one and only Pete Marquis, you have been by my side before my cancer and kept my head afloat all the way through it till the end.
“You played a huge part in many lives near and far, you would help anyone without a second thought. You will be missed more than you know.
“May you get the best bed in heaven, the one, the only, the legend Pete Marquis.”
‘You made the world a better place’
Another good friend, Chantelle, said: “You were the kindest most beautiful soul you could ever meet. You helped me so much through times I thought I would never get out of.
“You never gave up on me and have always been a very special friend to me as well as everyone else, because, let’s face it - you are one in a million.
“I don’t know anyone who you haven’t helped, as well as communities and charities you supported like you have. We all love you so much you incredible man, thank you for making the world a better place, the world won’t be same without you.”
‘You were an inspiration’
“Rest in peace, Pete Marquis,” added Ryan Weyer. “It’s heartbreaking to hear you’ve passed away.
“I’ll always remember the good laughs we had together building the Preston New Market and during the demolition, memories I’ll never forget.
“You were always a good guy to me in the past, and I’ll always appreciate that. It’s also inspiring to look back at how far you came with your business, starting from nothing and building something for yourself through hard work and determination.
“You should be proud of everything you achieved and the journey you went on. You’ll be sadly missed, Pete, and never forgotten. My thoughts are with your family and everyone who knew and loved you.”
‘A hardworking, genuine soul’
Friend and local dog groomer, Joanna Heeney, said: “What sad news to hear that Pete Marquis has passed away. The man, the myth, and a legend to the North West community.
“RIP big man, you did so much for so many people. A no nonsense, hardworking, genuine soul.”
‘Gentle giant’
Friend and business owner, Gemma Dawson-Goddard, added: “Devastated and heartbroken of the passing of my good friend Pete Marquis. You had the biggest heart and was the most gentle giant.”