PETER PELLAERS

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PETER PELLAERS May 27, 1945 - December 20, 2004 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Peter Pellaers, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, at the age of 59 years. Peter was born in 1945 in Maastricht, Holland to where he fondly looked back on his childhood. At the age of 15, Peter moved with his family to Winnipeg, Peter proceeded to learn English and work extremely hard in school to achieve honours, and especially loved the sciences. He joined the youth group at St. Nicholas Church, where he met Betty his bride. At the age of 22 Pete sustained a severe burn injury at work. He was always a fighter, and he made it through his difficult time with the love and support of Betty, family and friends. In spite of this setback, Peter went on to study at the University of Manitoba and received his Bachelor of Science Honours degree in Chemistry. He and his family were extremely proud when he began working as a chemist. Peter worked at the Health Protection Branch of Health Canada for over 30 years until his retirement this year. He enjoyed his position as Head Chemist in both the Food and Drug Labs, where he made many dear friends, especially Don, Rick and Bob. On December 20, 2002, he was presented with the Queen's Jubilee Medal for outstanding service and contributions to Canada in his field. We were all so proud of him on this occasion. Peter and Betty were married in 1968 and had two sons, Robert and Jason. Peter was so proud of his sons and all their accomplishments, he beamed with pride when Robert became a Civil Engineer and Jason a Chartered Accountant. He always attended their sporting events and loved being with them, whether travelling or just watching sports together on television. When the boys grew up, Pete loved to ski, bike, golf and play cards with them. Pete became a proud Opa when Rob and his wife Susan had their first child, Amelia, and was able to greet his new grandson Justin when he was born in July. Peter was very active in his community, and was a member of a curling team, the Knights of Columbus, and the Holy Redeemer Choir. He loved to sing and his voice could be heard ringing out spontaneously throughout his home. He also loved to cross country ski, cycle and golf. One of his proudest moments was when he completed a half marathon with his family cheering him on. Anyone who knew Peter knows that he absolutely loved working in the garden, making his yard one of the most beautiful in the neighbourhood. He was especially fond of his large assortment of his precious Dutch tulips and irises! Pete truly loved spending time in his garden and admiring his flowers as they changed throughout the year. Three years ago Pete's health changed as some complications from his accident surfaced, and he was faced with waiting for a liver transplant. A year ago, on December 20, 2003, Peter received the great news that there was a liver for him at the London, ON Health Sciences Centre, and when he and Betty travelled to London he was given an early Christmas gift of 364 more days with his family. Throughout this last year he had some struggles with his health but was a fighter to the end. He had a wonderful last summer of golfing with his friends (especially Rick Brown and son Jason), relaxing in his garden and new gazebo, walking in his neighbourhood and spending time with his wife and family. He travelled to Vancouver to visit his son Rob and family, and to meet his new grandson. Nothing made Peter more proud than the accomplishments of his family, and he was a great Opa. Peter was predeceased by his father Hubert Pellaers and his father-in-law Dmytro (Mike) Sniatkowski. He leaves with his memory his wife Betty; sons, Robert (Susan) and Jason (Stacey); and two grandchildren, Amelia and Justin. As well Peter is survived by his mother Gertrude Pellaers; mother-in-law Ina Sniatkowski; brothers and sisters, Ellie (John), Harry (Irene), Jules (Diane), Joe (Pat) and Kitty; brother-in-law Ted (Elaine); and their children and grandchildren. Peter had so many nieces, nephews, cousins, and great-nieces and great-nephews, and he so enjoyed the time spent with family. The family would like to especially thank some people who have been there for Pete for the last few years, and who have always supported him. Thank you to Dr. Renner, Dr. Kaita, Dr. Minuk and Vicki, Elyse, and Sally at the Health Sciences Centre Liver Unit and his doctor Dr. Wozney. A special thank you to Eunice for all her prayers and candles. And thank you to everyone who touched Pete in any way, with calls or visits when he wasn't feeling well, and for your years of friendship when he was. God knew that it was time to rest The hills so hard to climb So he closed his weary eyelids And whispered, Peace be Thine Away in the beautiful hills of God By the valley of rest so fair Some time, some day, we know not when We will meet our loved one there. According to Peter's wishes, cremation will take place. A memorial service in honour of Peter will be held on Thursday, December 23 at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Redeemer Parish, 288 Donwood Dr. In lieu of flowers please make donations in Peter's name to the Health Sciences Centre Foundation (Liver Research), (204) 787-2022, MS7-Thorlakson Building, 820 Sherbrook St., Winnipeg, MB R3A 1R9. In addition Peter always wanted to remind everyone to give the gift of life and sign your donor cards! Don't take your organs to heaven... eaven knows we need them here! We will always love you and miss you Pete! KLASSEN FUNERAL HOME 1897 Henderson - North of McIvor - 338-0331

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 31, 1969