Tribute

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Peter Aikenhead on March 4^th at Cowichan Hospice House. Peter was born May 4^th, 1936, to May and Grant (Pete) Aikenhead at St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC. Eldest of seven brothers and sisters. He was predeceased by daughter, Shelley, brothers Donny and Gordon (Butch) Aikenhead. Survived by his loving wife Joan, children Shawn (Steph), Vanessa (Dan), LeeAnn and Grandson William, and sisters Elinor, Lois, Cheryl (Glen) and Carole. He also leaves behind brother-in-law, Raymond (Lynne), sister-in-law, Kim (Kevin), and many in-laws, nieces, nephews, and his treat-loving cat, Ollie.

Peter worked in the logging industry from 1952 to 1965. His life calling and passion was truck driving until 1986 when he, with his wife Joan and son Shawn, began PJ’S Power washing Duncan BC. Peter proudly held his Class 1 until his passing.

Peter and Joan enjoyed many trips including across Canada to Newfoundland and back. Thru BC, Yukon, Alaska and Southern California in their pick-up and travel trailer. They also enjoyed many trips to Europe with sister Lois and brother-in-law Roger.

Peter loved working in his garden and on his farm. His Pig BBQs became an annual event bringing friends and family from everywhere.  He had a way with animals and always had man’s best friends (dogs and cats) by his side.

Along with the responsibilities of life, Peter was always ready to lend a hand to anyone at any given moment.  Life was always busy with work, family and farming. Life was never boring at the Aikenhead Ranch aka “The Funny Farm”.

Peter was given the gift of the gab and created many new and long-lasting friendships everywhere he went. If you were in Peter’s sight, he was always ready with a story to tell and ready to expand his circle of friends.

The Great Outdoors was where you found Peter in his element. He loved fishing and couldn’t wait for hunting season to arrive.  Planning the annual hunting trip was always exciting for Peter, who would always return home with more new stories of his adventures, and with usual luck he would have a Moose in tow!!!

The Family wish to thank brother-in-law, Raymond, for his devotion and daily visits over the months with Peter, Dr. Dan Phillipson, Dr Yip and the Cowichan District Hospital nurses. Special thanks to the Cowichan Hospice nurses and Hospice volunteers for their care and utmost compassion for Peter and his family.

Peter’s memory will live on in the hearts of all that who knew and loved him.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday May 24^th at 1pm at Mellor Hall, Cowichan Exhibition Grounds, 7380 Trans-Canada Hwy, North Cowichan. Reception to follow. The family requests that you bring and share your stories and memories of Peter on this day.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cowichan Hospice at www.cowichanhospice.org.