Suddenly yet peacefully at home on July 13, 2025, at the age of 79. He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife Shelley, his devoted companion of many years. Their bond was one of pure, honest, and unconditional love. Shelley was his world, and he was hers.

Pete embraced life and family with an open heart. He was a proud stepfather to James (Anne) and Shannon (Tyler), and a cherished “step papa” to Faith, Madison, Sierra, and Lily. He was godfather to Shawn, Pennie, and Candice, and uncle to four nephews and many great-nieces and nephews. His beloved dog Grace will surely miss his gentle presence.

A kind and compassionate man, Pete was a loyal friend, thoughtful neighbour, and held a deep reverence for Mother Earth. He found joy in the company of animals, particularly dogs, and brightened lives with his legendary sense of humour and penchant for storytelling.

Born in Ipswich, England, Pete immigrated to Canada in 1956 with his parents, Edward and Kathleen and older sister June. Settling in the Durham Region, Pete nurtured a lifelong fascination with all things electrical eventually becoming an electrician by trade. Guided by his father, he built a radio as a teenager so he could listen to the Grand Ole Opry and his favourite country music station in Wheeling West Virginia. Pete was a licenced amateur radio operator, known on the airwaves as VE3 IPD, and he became a master in the art of Morse code and spoke to people across the globe.

Pete’s adventures led him to scuba diving exploring wrecks throughout North America. However, it was on two wheels where he found true freedom. From age 15, Pete’s love of motorcycles took him throughout North America on his Harley (Thumper), with countless memories made at bike rallies including Sturgis and Daytona. He was equally fond of road trips in his motor home (Homer) especially to Huntsville and his winter haven in Bronson, Florida.

Music was another cornerstone of Pete’s vibrant life. Around campfires both at home and down south, he played his mandolin (Mandy) often with Skinny Bill and attended bluegrass and country music festivals that fueled his soul.

After being placed on disability at age 49 due to rheumatoid arthritis, Pete embraced the gift of time. Summers in Ontario and winters in Florida chasing adventures, striving for a million memories, many of which he shared with joy and enthusiasm.

You are warmly invited to attend a Celebration of Pete’s Life on Sunday September 7th, from 2 to 5 at the Big Blue Barn, 4405 Ritson Road, North Oshawa. This is a casual setting with food and light refreshments served, offering the opportunity to share stories and reflect on the joy Pete brought to our lives.

Donations in Pete’s memory can be made to the Arthritis Society Canada.

VE3 IPD has signed off the airwaves and is now a Silent Key.

Four wheels moved your body; two wheels moved your soul.
You have now found the perfect winding road.
Ride on my Love!!