It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Peter Kankis who departed this life unexpectedly and peacefully at home on February 24, 2026, in Huntsville, Ontario, at the age of 67; Peter was born on June 5, 1958, in Toronto, Ontario.

Predeceased by his father Voldemars Kankis and his uncle Peter Lejnieks, Peter is lovingly remembered by his mother Andra Kankis, his sister Brigita Sprukulis (Peter), his niece Kristin, his nephew Danny (Rachael), his aunt Helen Lejnieks, his cousins, and many life-long friends in Huntsville and Toronto.

Peter’s parents were born in Latvia and came to Canada in 1955. Peter’s Latvian heritage exposed him to the warmth of Latvian culture, community and friendship, which always held a special place in Peter’s heart.

Peter moved to Huntsville from Toronto in the 1990s where he made his home and worked for many years in Bracebridge and Huntsville. Peter worked at Hidden Hitch and Family, Youth and Child Services of Muskoka and the friendships he made were lasting. Peter always embraced the small town feel of Huntsville where he felt most comfortable, and while he visited his family in the Toronto area often, he was happiest returning home to Huntsville and his family of friends.

Peter’s passion included sports of all kinds from a very young age as a participant on many teams, to following any sport or team he could find to watch on TV. Peter was an outgoing, engaging and kindhearted family member and friend. He was a wonderful man with a willingness to always help those in need, and his generous spirit was felt and shared with those he loved and cared for.

It’s been said that to meet Peter for the first time was to gain an immediate friend and come away feeling like you had known him for years because of his friendliness, warmth and his down-to-earth personality. Peter’s loss will be felt deeply by those he left behind; he will be forever remembered and live on in the hearts of his family and friends who loved him.

Interment and Celebration of Life in Peter’s honour will be held on Saturday, July 18, 11 AM at York Cemetery, 160 Beecroft Road, North York - “Lejnieks” Gravesite; reception to follow immediately.