Tribute

Peter Edward Wilson passed away peacefully in Duncan, British Columbia,

at the age of 91. Born in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, Peter was the

third of four children born to James and Lily Wilson and the last surviving

member of his immediate family.

Peter’s early years were shaped by education, discipline, and sport. After

graduating from Gateshead Grammar School, he completed two years of

compulsory service in the Royal Air Force. He then attended Loughborough

College, where he earned a Diploma in Physical Education and Geography,

laying the foundation for a lifelong commitment to teaching, athletics, and

mentorship.

Peter began his teaching career in Bradford, England, before moving to

Dortmund, Germany, where he spent five years teaching at the British

Forces School. Eventually, he immigrated to Canada and settled in

Duncan, where his influence on students and school communities would

span decades. He taught at all school levels but spent 19 years at

Cowichan Secondary School, where he coached boys soccer and later girls

field hockey who achieved the first provincial field hockey championship,

something he took quiet pride in.

In 1973, Peter met Joan, a nurse at Cowichan District Hospital, who he

found a deep and enduring partnership with, and whose warmth,

confidence, and social spirit complemented his own. Together, they shared

53 devoted years of marriage.

Peter was a proud father to five children. From his first marriage, he had

two children, three grandchildren and four great-grandsons. With Joan,

Peter raised three children, and from them four grandchildren. Together

they built a lively, laughter-filled home on George St. where family life was

central to Peter’s happiness, from afternoons at the swimming pool and

bocce games on the lawn, to the joy he found in time spent with

grandchildren.

Education remained deeply important to Peter throughout his life. After

settling in Canada, he completed his Education Degree at the University of

Victoria. His passion for sport never waned. He played soccer for Cowichan

and the Victoria Castaways and cricket for Cowichan. Tennis, however, was

his greatest love. Peter played for 35 years at the South Cowichan Lawn

Tennis Club, continuing twice weekly matches and winter play at Arbutus

Ridge well into his later years. His final tennis game was played just before

his 91st birthday, surrounded by club members and friends who came to

celebrate his last day on the court.

As was Peter’s wish, Joan lovingly cared for him at home in his final

months and was surrounded by his family in his final days. He passed

peacefully, with Joan and their three children by his side.

Peter is survived by his beloved wife, Joan; his children, Sarah, Michael,

Rachel, Erica(Chris), and Andrew(Colleen); his grandchildren,

Bradley(Jenna), Amahra, Chris, Wyatt, Lily, Jacob, and Hannah; and his

great-grandchildren, Mason, Ashton, Braxson, and Colten.

In all his roles—as teacher, coach, athlete, husband, father, and friend,

Peter was consistently described as a true gentleman: kind, patient, and

generous of spirit. He will be remembered for his quiet integrity, lifelong

dedication to education and sport, and the love he shared so fully with his

family and community. At Peter’s request, there will be no funeral service.