In memory of

Peter Tower

February 12, 1925 -  July 18, 2024

On July 18th, at the venerable age of 99, Peter Tower peacefully passed away at the Sunnybrook Veterans Centre. Peter’s life journey began in a farming community in Western Ukraine, where he was lovingly raised by his grandparents. At the age of 11, amidst the harsh realities of the Great Depression, he emigrated to Canada to join his family who had recently resettled in Toronto. Despite the challenges of a new country, Peter persevered. While attending school, he supported his mother, stepfather Walter, and younger sister Ada, acquiring an array of practical skills that would serve him throughout his life. With the outbreak of World War II, Peter volunteered to serve in the Canadian Army. He was among the last cohorts dispatched to Europe, where he dutifully carried out transport missions across Italy, France, the Netherlands, and Germany, moving officers, wounded soldiers, and liberated POWs. After the war, Peter found his calling in the automotive industry, dedicating his career to parts distribution and warehousing, culminating in his retirement from Acklands-Grainger. Through family friends, he met his wife, Annie, and they settled in Scarborough, where they lovingly raised their two children, Linda and Stephen. A man of substantial skill and determination, Peter built a family cottage, cultivated gardens filled with fruit trees, and was always ready to lend a helping hand to those with automotive and home renovation projects. Alongside Annie, he was deeply involved with Wilmar Heights United Church, notably serving as a Boy Scout leader. His leisure pursuits included fishing, golf, and woodworking. A dedicated Mason, Peter eventually rose to the esteemed position of Master of Antiquity Lodge, Toronto, alongside his close friend Art and brothers-in-law, Bob and Bill. Following Annie’s sudden passing, Peter moved to Etobicoke, closer to his surviving family. It was here that he met Marilyn, his loving partner, at Islington United Church. Both recently widowed, they found solace and joy in each other’s company, embracing retirement together, traveling, and participating in church activities until Marilyn’s passing in 2018. In the months leading up to COVID-19, Peter maintained his independence in a retirement home, despite facing increasing physical and cognitive challenges. Thanks to the timely support from Veterans Affairs, he transitioned to the Sunnybrook Veteran’s Wing, where he lived out his final days in a compassionate and dignified environment surrounded by fellow veterans and caring staff. Peter will be fondly remembered for his physical strength, unwavering work ethic, and his mastery in working with his hands. His quiet, steadfast demeanor, coupled with his intrinsic respect for any and all people, regardless of race, religion, or economic status, left an indelible mark on those who knew him. We can only attribute these qualities to the kindness and opportunities bestowed upon him in his younger days. With heavy hearts, we say farewell to Peter. He leaves behind his daughter Linda (Bob), his son Steve (Elizabeth), his grandsons Simon and Darcy, his granddaughter Allison, and numerous loving nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors. It was indeed a life well-lived.

Guestbook 

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Brent and Pam Collins (Steve is our brother-in-law)

Entered July 23, 2024 from Elora, Ontario

We have very fond memories of Peter at the cottage, both at Steve and Elizabeth’s cottage at Silver Birch Beach and at the Tower’s cottage at Cawaja Beach. We remember being invited by Steve and Elizabeth to join the “Tower’s” at their cottage to play rummoli. We always had great fun and many laughs.
Peter was always such a gentleman - so kind and considerate and humble.
We also remember him spending many hours helping Steve with jobs that needed to be done around the cottage.
We know he will be deeply missed and our sincerest condolences are with you at this difficult time. We pray that you are surrounded by God’s comforting love.
Love, Pam and Brent ❤️

Jackie Rose (Peters sons niece)

Entered July 23, 2024 from Duncan, BC

My condolences to the family. I was privileged to have know Peter growing up and such a sweet man! He will be missed by so many people!
Love Jackie

Mike & Margo Karda (Nephew)

Entered July 23, 2024 from Aylmer Ontario

Loving memories of Uncle Pete at the cottage he built with my father Bill on “Peter Ave”.
Belt just off centre, so as not to interfere with his work, the sweet fragrance of a colt burning, wine dipped rum tipped, and the explosive laugh that had you smiling alongside. Love and peace to family he leaves behind.

William Peter Karda (Brother -in-law)

Entered July 23, 2024 from 1487 Brentano Blvd., Mississauga

We had some great Deer Hunting Trips and stories in our early years.
Great memories of the cottage years. (beginning in 1958)
A great outdoorsman and fine marksman.
Brother-in-law Bill Karda

Mark Bajtala (Nephew)

Entered July 25, 2024 from Brampton

My condolences to his family. I miss his childhood and wartime stories, the sights and sounds of his working around the cottage and scent of the cigars he smoked. You are loved and missed Uncle Pete.

Photos 

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