In Loving Memory of
Peter (Butrus) Elias Rafael Zabaneh
1935 - 2026

"Glory to God for all things!"
- St. John Chrysostom

With grateful hearts, we celebrate the life of Peter (Butrus) Elias Rafael Zabaneh; a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, mentor, community builder and friend.

Born in Ramla, Palestine, Peter carried his homeland in his heart throughout his life. It was there that the values that guided him first took root: faith, family, hospitality, learning and service. His journey led him through Ramallah, Amman, Rhodes and ultimately Toronto, where he built a life rich in purpose, friendship and community.

At the age of twelve, Peter and his family were displaced from Ramla during the Nakba of 1948 (the Catastrophe). Forced to leave their home, their possessions and the life they had known, they became refugees. Through faith, determination and hard work, the family rebuilt their lives from the ground up, creating endless opportunities for future generations. Peter carried that resilience throughout his life, passing on the traditions, stories and generous spirit of his Palestinian heritage to his family and to all who knew him.

A gifted broadcaster, entrepreneur, storyteller and lifelong learner, Peter delighted in thoughtful conversation, followed world affairs with deep curiosity, loved language and history and recited poetry from memory with remarkable ease. He embraced each day with enthusiasm and brought warmth and laughter to every gathering. As master of ceremonies at countless celebrations, he welcomed everyone as though they were the guest of honour, making each occasion unforgettable. To his grandchildren, he was simply "Jedo," a name spoken with deep affection. Friends, neighbours and newcomers found in him a mentor, a trusted confidant and someone who made everyone feel at home.

One of Peter's signature expressions was to greet everyone as "the Great." He had a remarkable gift for recognizing the goodness and potential in others, offering words that left people feeling encouraged and valued. It was a simple expression that lifted spirits and became one of his hallmarks. In time, those whose lives he enriched began affectionately calling him "Peter the Great." It was a reflection of the love, admiration and gratitude they felt for a man who always encouraged others before himself.

Many who were close to Peter lovingly referred to him as البطل والمغوار (al-Baṭal wal-Mighwār) - "the Hero and the Fearless One." Peter was a shelter, a protector and a source of strength for family, friends and all who turned to him. His love, wisdom and generosity reached far beyond his own family and many came to regard him as a father and grandfather in every sense of the word.

Peter's professional life reflected both his gift for communication and his entrepreneurial spirit. He spent nearly six years as a radio announcer with the Voice of America in Rhodes, Greece, where his distinctive voice, eloquence and engaging presence earned him the admiration of listeners. He later settled in Canada and, alongside his brothers, built a successful business in food and trade that flourished for more than three decades. Their partnership reflected a deep loyalty, hard work and a shared purpose. Peter believed that success was measured by what was built together, the opportunities created for others and the blessings shared with those closest to him. Whenever someone needed him, he was there.

Peter shared a lifetime of love and partnership with his wife, Nabila Tabri Zabaneh. To him, she was always "Nabilati," a name spoken with affection that reflected the bond they shared throughout their marriage. Together they created a home where family and friends gathered, lively conversation filled the table and every guest was welcomed with warmth, generosity and genuine hospitality.

He leaves behind his children:

• Walid Michael Zabaneh and his wife, Zeina Darseh Zabaneh
• Nancy Zabaneh Cordahi and her husband, Cherif James Fouad Cordahi
• Tanya Zabaneh Hourani and her husband, Amer Amal Hourani

He was the cherished Jedo of Peter and Celine Zabaneh; Gabriel, Michael and Alexandra Cordahi; and Francis, Marisa and Carmen Hourani, who were among the greatest blessings of his life. He treasured every moment with them, celebrated their accomplishments, encouraged their unique gifts and found deep happiness in watching them grow.

Peter believed that one of life's greatest responsibilities was to prepare the next generation for opportunities beyond those available to him. He invested wholeheartedly in the education of his children, making sacrifices so they could attend outstanding schools and universities and pursue lives filled with possibility. He always hoped they would go further than he had, embrace every opportunity before them and build lives of purpose, integrity and service. Their accomplishments were among his greatest joys. He extended that same confidence to his grandchildren and to many others, taking genuine pleasure in seeing people flourish.

He is also lovingly remembered by his brother, Kamel Elias Zabaneh, his only surviving sibling; his brothers- and sisters-in-law; his nieces and nephews; his extended family; and countless dear friends.

Peter is reunited in eternal peace with his parents, Elias Rafael Zabaneh and Julia Khalil Rantissi and with his six beloved brothers and sisters – Faris Elias Zabaneh, Widad Zabaneh Rantissi, Christine Zabaneh Azar, Boulos Elias Zabaneh, Shafik Elias Zabaneh and Margo Zabaneh - who predeceased him.

A deep faith guided his life. He welcomed newcomers to the country, served his church and community and concluded each day by praying for those he loved by name. In recognition of his devoted service to the Church, he was honoured as a Knight of the Order of St. Ignatius by the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese. He accepted this distinction with characteristic humility. Those daily prayers expressed his profound gratitude, compassion and abiding love for his family and friends.

Peter's legacy lives on in every life he uplifted, every friendship he treasured, every heart he encouraged and every generation inspired by his faith, generosity and example.

The Zabaneh family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, caregivers, clergy, family members and friends who cared for Peter throughout the final year of his life. Your love and presence brought comfort to Peter and to our family. We are deeply grateful to everyone who accompanied Peter with dignity and compassion as he completed his earthly journey and entered into the great mystery of eternity.

Those who wish to honour Peter's memory may consider making a donation to his beloved St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, a parish that remained close to his heart throughout his life.

https://www.stgeorgeto.org/contributions-donations/

"Acquire the Spirit of peace, and thousands around you will be saved."
- St. Seraphim of Sarov

May his memory be eternal. May his soul dwell in peace and light.