KEN PETER

Condolences & Memories (35 entries)

• I started learning tap with Ken in second grade and that relationship evolved through my my teen years. I became an instructor for Ken and travelled throughout southern Manitoba and within Winnipeg instructing tap as his business was expanding. Ken was a friend and individual that never ran short of kindness and trust. He always enjoyed a good practical joke and his laugh was extremely contagious. Ken’s heart was kind and his love of dance, creativity, openness to ideas, and enjoyment for inclusion of others were trademarks that followed him year after year. I miss him tremendously and only, only, have such fond memories of him and his astonishingly contagious laugh. He always saw the good and the talent in others and worked to bring that to light in what ever way possible. Ken helped to make me feel a part of something throughout my younger turbulent live and gave me a focus that would stabilize my teen years. I owe him much. Marian, you know how many young lives Ken helped to set and give purpose to. I’m so sorry for your loss. It’s taken me time to finally respond to Ken’s passing, and even today it is very difficult to express my heartfelt loss. I will never forget him - and still today have happy memories of you both dancing together at the recitals. You and he were and still are cherished friends. - Posted by: Brent Cooke (Dance Teacher, Student and Friend) on: Mar 16, 2020

• ken was the best dance teacher i ever had. If he didnt know your name he knew your nick name❤️ He was like a second dad to me, i loved him and wished i got to say goodbye. - Posted by: Jessica (dance student) on: Dec 20, 2014

• I took tap lessons from Ken starting when I was 3 and he was 14. I started at Champlain Community Club and graduated to his house where I took semi-private and then private lessons. My brothers all danced with Ken at one time or another, as did all 3 of my daughters. I danced with or taught many of the people who have posted on this guest book. Ken was always encouraging. When, at about age 16, I auditioned for No No Nanette at Rainbow Stage and was not chosen, he said it was because I could dance better than the guys (there was only 1 male tap dancer at the auditions, the others were all ballet dancers). I was always sure he was just saying it to make me feel better, but it did just that. I knew Ken all my life as his family went to the same church mine did. He will be sadly missed. Marian, Jayne, Michelle and Scott, Ken put his best into all of you with his dancing. Don't ever stop dancing. All my love and prayers are with you. - Posted by: Laurie (LaRue) Lyss (dance student, instructor and receptionist) on: Jan 21, 2012

• My condolences to Marian, Michelle, Scott & Jayne I have been out of the country travelling in Australia since late November and only today read of Ken's death. I had spoken to Ken at the Rainbow Stage offices just prior to my departure. He will truly be missed by many in the Winnipeg dance and arts community. - Posted by: Peter Sywy () on: Jan 08, 2012

• I first had the opportunity to meet Ken Peters when he was brought on as a student mentor at River East Collegiate business program. His willness to share his countless experises and deep knowledge of the business world was always appreciated. He is a major reason why I chose to continue my business studies into University and have continued to use many of lessons over the years. - Posted by: Jon Metcalfe (Student) on: Jan 05, 2012

• Ken, you will be sadly missed by all our family. You taught dance and musical theatre to all my children. My Oldest, Ryan, was in Rainbow Stage for many summers. I think my Dauughter Holly has been your longest running student. She started with Marion when she was 4 and now is 30 and still dances at Ken Peter Studio's. She was there dancing with him the night before he passed. It was a shock to say the least. She loved to tap. Ken had many nic names for his dancers and hers was Huckle Buckel, why I don't know. She will miss seeing him every week and I will miss her stories about him. Ken, Rest in Peace. - Posted by: Marianne Delveaux (Friend) on: Jan 05, 2012

• I am so saddened to hear of Ken's passing. I will always remember him as a truly amazing, extremely talented and gifted, kind and compassionate man. Many fond memories started in the DesMeurons basement studio in the early 60's...and carried over to Champlain Community Club. I also remember Ken picking me up after school and dropping me off at various community centres to teach (Norwood and Transcona). There was no one else who could dance, entertain, and inspire you like Ken. I will always remember anxiously waiting backstage for him to run out on the stage and perform the last number of the evening..it was magic ! Memories are like threads of gold, They never tarnish or grow old, No longer in our lives to share, But in our hearts is always there.. Thanks for the memories Ken, and may you rest in peace. With heartfelt condolences to you Marian and your family. - Posted by: Pat Case (nee "Patsy" Grenier) (Student and Teacher-Ken Peter Dance Studio, Westmount and Paterson in Windsor Park)) on: Jan 03, 2012

• When the teen aged Ken Peter wasn't outside playing football on the front lawn with the boys (my two brothers among them, or thinking up hilarious nicknames for all the kids on the street, he was creating a legacy - one which has been described by the many who have paid tribute to him on this site. From age 5-12 I walked 3 houses over to the basement studio where alongside the jokes, riddles and laughter Ken taught me how to tap dance. Typically he would stop the lesson at a moment's notice and act out a scene from a TV sitcom such as Gomer Pyle - I would be under pressure to guess the character, IF I could stop laughing long enough! This early Ken Peter Dance Studio was a wonderful family organization. His Mom Olive was very much involved, costumes for the dancers were all sewn by parents, and the year end recital (magical) was MC'd by his brother Don. The first one I recall was held at Nelson Mac gym, then it was on to the Playhouse, then MTC. At the end of every show, the big finale was always Ken - dancing impossibly fast, and all could admire the remarkable talent. I leave you with the last words of each lesson: "Have you got it...? Will you practice...?" - Posted by: Joyce (Lomenda) Wood (student/neighbour) on: Dec 31, 2011

• Marian, Scott and Jayne, we were very sad to hear about Ken. We will always remember him for his silly nicknames and his laugh. What we remember the most about Ken is that your age or level of experience never mattered. If he believed you could do it, then you gained the strength to actually do it. We'll miss him. Margaret (Bailey) and Joe Marino - Posted by: Margaret and Joe Marino (Friends) on: Dec 31, 2011

• I am very saddened to hear of Ken's death. I began tap with him when I was 8 (1961) at Champlain Community Club, and for a number of years in their basement on Des Meurons. I also taught for him throughout high school. I remember Ken picking me up after school to drive me to various community clubs to teach, because we had this monster of a record player to carry around. I had a lot of fun as one of "Ken's Kloggers." He was good at creating community and fun among young people. I still love tap and attending our local dance recitals in Virden. To those he loved, I wish you peace that passes understanding. - Posted by: Janice Van Aertselaer (student) on: Dec 30, 2011

• From the time I was about 7 years old in the mid 60's Ken taught me tap dancing at the local club, then I moved to his Studio in Norwood area. I was so very fond of him and remember Marian teaching me and when they met and taking lessons with Sue and going on many country trips helping with his classes. I was able to attend and join in on the 25th Anniversary of dance and attend many of the plays he produced over at Rainbow Stage. I do not know the words to describe how much fun, energy, charismand joy he brought to many lives. He encouraged me always and had such a flare of making everyone who crossed his path feel very special. Thanks Ken for all the Memories. I'm sure everyone who got the priviledge to meet him feels what I am feeling. I am so glad my daughter was able to also meet and enjoy dance at the Studio over off of Springfield. Marian, I pray for you, Scott and Jayne and know I have been thinking of you daily ever since hearing of Kens passing. So sorry I missed the funeral. Condolences to you all. - Posted by: Janet Jensen ("old" friend and student) on: Dec 29, 2011

• We were shocked to hear of Ken's passing. We offer our sincere condolences to all the members of the family. - Posted by: Len and JoAnn Mark (friends) on: Dec 29, 2011

• I am so saddened by Ken's loss. I have very fond memories of dancing at the concert hall. I was 8 when I took my first lesson at the East End Community club 45 years ago and it is something that always stuck with me. My first dance was won't you come home Bill Bailey :)Rest in peace Ken, my sympathies to the family - Posted by: Debbie T (student) on: Dec 29, 2011

• I was blessed to have known Ken and enjoyed “Sixty Years of Music” performed back in April 19, 1969 dancing for The Kinsmen Club of Brandon where his brother Don hosted the event. My encouragement to his family is to cherish the memories you shared together and please know that you are in my heart and my thoughts. There is one more star up in heaven and its brightness and warmth will be with us forever. Ken, you will be deeply missed and my fond memories of you will remain with me forever. - Posted by: Deb Perreault (nee Lemoine) (Student & Teacher (Ken Peter Dance Studio Westmount & Paterson location)) on: Dec 28, 2011

• Was very saddened to hear the news of Ken's passing. I started dance lessons with Ken and Marian when I was 5 years old...and continued until I was about 12. I loved dancing and Ken always had a smile or joke for me. He loved teaching and it showed in everything he did. He will be greatly missed. Rest in Peace Ken. - Posted by: Michelle Beaudry (Dance Student) on: Dec 28, 2011

• I first started taking dance lessons from Ken and Marion when I was 5 years old and continued until I was about 13 or 14. He was an amazing man who loved all his students and never failed to make me smile. You will be greatly missed Ken...Rest In Peace. - Posted by: Michelle Beaudry (Dance Student) on: Dec 28, 2011

• Deepest sympathy - He will be greatly missed - Posted by: Judi Beaudry (Friend) on: Dec 28, 2011

• Ken and Marian were my dance instructors for over 20 years and instilled in me a life-long love of tap. The community centres, and later, the studio were my second home and my classmates like family. It was a fantastic, fun part of life. Thank you Ken, for sharing your humour, creativity and time with us. My heartfelt sympathies to Marian, Michelle, Scott & Jayne. - Posted by: Laurene (Ward) Mooney (Student - Ken Peter Dance Studio) on: Dec 28, 2011

• Our heartfelt condolences to Ken's family & the dance comunity at large. Although a more recent student at the dance studio(3 years)my daughter Justice has experienced the warmth & caring from Ken & Marion & staff that only true talented, & special people have. Rest in peace Ken...you won't be forgotten. - Posted by: Barb Veosovich (daughter is a dance student) on: Dec 27, 2011

• My condolences to Marian, Scott and Jayne and the rest of the family. My daughter, TJ took dance at the studio and did Rainbow shows with Ken. As a single parent, the money was often hard to find but Ken would not let that stop TJ from having the opportunity to dance. Ken and Marian are generous and helping to many, many people. I spent many hours volunteering both indoors and outdoors and I always remember Ken's greeting to me when I came in the door..."Oh Oh Here comes trouble". I have fond memories of great conversations in the "money room" at Pantages after the fifty-fiftys were counted and balanced. I am grateful that my last contact with him was a pleasant conversation and coffee in Wendy's with Hugh. It was a shock to hear of Ken's passing. The performance community and his bountiful number of friends will miss him terribly but my heart goes out to such a warm family. Marian, you and the kids are in my prayers. - Posted by: Betty Hirniak (friend) on: Dec 27, 2011

• I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Ken's sudden passing. He has a very special place in my heart. Our daughter, Lisa, who had Down Syndrome, ushered at Rainbow for 11 + years. Ken always treated her with loving respect and teased her, which she really enjoyed. She died of cancer in 2005, and I know she is giving him huge hugs in Heaven and asking questions about Scott. Can't imagine Rainbow without you, Ken. Heartfelt sympathy and love to you, Marion, Scott, and Jayne. - Posted by: Roberta Mitchell (usher- Rainbow Stage) on: Dec 27, 2011

• Ken and his magical dances were a part of my life for over 20 years. I will I ever forget our time on stage, practicing in your basement, running around MTC before performances and endless practicing at various community clubs. My heart goes out to Marion who is a very special woman. And Ken's kids who I remember as babies. Love you all. God Bless you. Ken, I can still hear you clicking, always. - Posted by: Kathy (Urso) McAulay (Student) on: Dec 26, 2011

• when we were younger ken used to offer me his car. he had a big plymouth,hardtop,power windows,etc.he probably had the nicest car around.this was when we were in high school.i never asked to borrow it, he just offered. he also gave us a loan deposit for our first house. i was there when he was setting up his dance studio in windsor park he also sold me his 51 ford hardtop. the passenger door was frozen shut. he tried to talk me out of it. i was there when he moved into his semi detached house with only one door. he had a dogand he was locked up in the basement when he went to work. one day the dog chewed through the basement door and into the front door. he was in disbelief. when he realized the windows were stapled in he started to wonder bout the quality of the house. there were other stories but i will stop there. i'm just sorry we drifted apart rest in peace ken - Posted by: brian lavallee (friend) on: Dec 26, 2011

• I remember growing up with the "Peter" boys. I remember the hours his Mom put into organizing the recitals. I took tap dancing lessons from Ken at Champlain community club every Sat. morning for years. My condolences to the family. - Posted by: vicki yankoski (next door neighbor when Ken was growing up on Des Meurons st.) on: Dec 25, 2011

• Condolences to all Ken's family and friends at this time. Ken was my first dance teacher, some 37 years ago, and I always made a point of seeing him when I went to Rainbow Stage performances or office. Have many happy memories of him in classes and chats about musical theater snd life. Truly a kind soul - I'll miss him! - Posted by: Siana Attwell (Student and friend) on: Dec 25, 2011

• Marian, Scott & Jayne, I know that Ken and Ron are having a laugh together and picking next season. So unbelievable. With love and friendship always, Debbie xo - Posted by: Debbie Maslowsky (Friend and colleague) on: Dec 24, 2011

• I remeber Kenny when he and his Mom and brothers lived on Des Meurons just down from Fifth Avenue, St. Vital; he was an avid dancer then, I never had a lesson from him, too bad for me. Joe Wirvin (ottawa) - Posted by: Joe Wirvin (an old family friend ) on: Dec 24, 2011

• Marian, Scott and Jayne- Fond memories of the dance classes - - -Please know my thoughts are with you all. - Posted by: Linda Rieger (former student) on: Dec 24, 2011

• Ken was a great neighbor with a sense of humour. Our children grew up together and Daniella, Carmen, Nicole, Christy and myself all are saddened by his passing. - Posted by: Pat O'Donnell (former neighbor) on: Dec 24, 2011

• Ken taught me all kinds of dancing over the years. He was always fun, energetic, professional, funny, and encouraging. I loved having him as my teacher, as well as my daughter's dance teacher. He started teaching me when he was 18 years old and I was 10 at Champlain Community Club. My sincere condolences, Marian, Scott, Michelle and Jane. I loved your husband/dad. - Posted by: Louise Watson (Student of Ken Peter Dance Stuudio) on: Dec 24, 2011

• We were all so blessed to have known such a wonderful,talented man.He had such an impact on Jackie's life that will never be forgotten.His kind, caring ways and generous spirit will be remembered. We were so lucky to have had the paths of the beautiful Peter Family cross our lives. Our hearts and prayers go out to Marion , Scott and Jayne. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. May he rest in Peace. God Bless, The Meyers Family - Posted by: Donna Meyers (Friend) on: Dec 24, 2011

• Have very fond memories of Ken and Marian and their teaching; they made so many children happy and enthusiastic about dancing - Posted by: Joy Clemons/Lianne Kirner (Dancer and parent in Kens Selkirk classes many years ago) on: Dec 24, 2011

• Marian, Scott and Jayne my thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Your Dad was one of the kindest and funniest people I have known. I looked forward to my tap class with Ken each week as he always had an interesting story to tell. Every time I hear the rain fall lightly I will think of ken tapping away... - Posted by: Julye Rogoski () on: Dec 24, 2011

• Marian, Scott and Jayne, the thought of ken (dad) not being in the dancing world is almost impossible. we will always remember Ken for his caring ways with his students,parents, and his energetic smile. Everytime you hear thunder you know your dad is clicking his tap shoe heels. you will all be in our thoughts over the holiday season, stay strong as ken would have wanted. Tom, Donna, Duane and Tracy Irwin - Posted by: Donna Irwin () on: Dec 24, 2011

• Our Children, Melissa, Travis & Jennine BEST all cherish their experiences at Ken's studio. Ken was always a gentleman, who valued his relationships with his students highly. Ken's now dancing with the angels... God Bless Ken & his family. - Posted by: Judith & Kurt BEST (Parents of students of Ken's dance & Theater) on: Dec 24, 2011