Peter (Pete) passed away peacefully on October 29, with family by his side. He is greatly missed by his wife of 36 years, Linda, his children, Kyle, Jess (Alex), and Zach (Caray), his dog, Zuri, his sister Alice (Terry) and by his nieces and nephews and their families, and his many friends and former colleagues. He is predeceased by his parents, his brother, Wilbert, and his first wife, Roberta.
Pete was born in Leeuwarden, Netherlands, as the second child to Akke (Anne), a nurse, and Petrus (Peter), a florist. It is here that he first demonstrated his adventurous spirit, often wandering away while his parents worked, to explore the town- once even joining a local parade. He travelled with his family to Canada in 1951, landing in Halifax’s Pier 21 and moving to Southern Ontario, before settling in Brampton.
Pete attended McMaster University in 1965. There he discovered his love of economics and graduated with both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree. He made some of his lifelong friends at McMaster and they kept campus security busy with their pranks, and later his family entertained with stories of their adventures.
After graduation, Pete moved to Ottawa, where he began his long career with the Federal Government, first at Statistics Canada (where he met his wife, Linda) and then within the Department of Finance, where he served as Director of Fiscal Policy from 1990 to his retirement in 2005. Pete continued to consult on the budget and fiscal policy matters in his retirement, and greatly enjoyed writing articles with his friend, Scott Clark. Pete had a sharp intellect and quick wit and was known for being open, patient, and always willing to explain and share his knowledge. He treated everyone equally and with respect, but also wasn’t afraid to speak truth to power. His legacy within the Department continues.
Pete was a family man first and foremost and he took great pride in his wife and children’s activities and accomplishments. From early morning horseshows to hockey games across the city, Pete would be there and would find a way to become involved– as a groom, coach, timekeeper, cheerleader– to support his family. Pete’s presence, love, humour, and stories will be greatly missed.
Pete made a lasting impact on those who knew him. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Diabetes Association (https://crm2.diabetes.ca) are appreciated. Condolences and memories can be shared at www.goodfellowsfuneralhome.com. Due to COVID protocols, a private Celebration of Life will be held.
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