Peter Lorne Smith

In loving memory ~
Peter passed away unexpectedly on July 5, 2022 in St. Boniface Hospital while on a family visit in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He is survived by Brenda, his wife of 55 years; his children, Patrick (Kristen) and Kristin (Cameron); his grandchildren, Shanleigh, Kyla, Perrin, Devin and Toby; his sisters, Catherine Holley (David), Patricia Bradley and Judy Cartwright (John); his sister-in-law Jann Derrick, along with several nephews and nieces and their families.
Born in Belleville, Ontario, Peter lived in Trenton until the family moved to B.C. in 1955. Peter attended and completed school in Burnaby, graduating from Burnaby South High School. He played baseball during his school years and was offered a scholarship to Whitworth College in Spokane, Washington, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1967. That same year he married Brenda, who had been a companion and friend since childhood. In the fall of 1967, Peter began his long and rewarding teaching career.
In 1970, the couple moved to Williams Lake where Peter took a position teaching P.E. at Williams Lake Junior Secondary School thus beginning a noteworthy career that would see him leave a mark on all three of the Laketown's secondary schools. His vision for P.E. was to provide students with a love of physical activity, a love he taught by example as he participated in the canoeing club, the Williams Lake Men's Fastball League and the local bowling league as well as refereeing for years in the Men's Basketball League.
As his career progressed, Peter gravitated towards teaching students with special needs. He was instrumental in promoting their inclusion into regular classes wherever possible and he arranged many unique activities for these students, including exchange trips to Ontario and Newfoundland, something that many still talk about.
In 1985, Pete earned his Master's of Education degree from U.B.C. At various times over the ensuing years, he served as Vice Principal, Acting Principal, or Principal in all three of Williams Lake's secondary schools. As an administrator, Pete was respected and appreciated by students, parents and teaching colleagues. He had a quiet, empathetic style, always looking for a solution which served the best interests of students. He worked hard to set a tone of consideration and civility in the schools in which he worked.
In 2001, Pete retired from teaching and administration. He had always enjoyed working with his hands, and could often be found in his workshop fixing, creating, and woodworking. After his retirement, he became an accomplished builder of bentwood furniture and handmade wooden toys. Never one to join large groups, and preferring to stay out of the limelight, Pete nevertheless continued to be involved in and to make his mark on our community. He was one of the founding organizers of the Cariboo - Chilcotin Elder College, and a long time supporter of that organization. He was also a quiet supporter of St. Andrew's United Church, assisting with whatever project was being done. For a few years he was involved with the local Restorative Justice program.
Peter enriched the Williams Lake community in many ways, but it was secondary to the importance he placed on family. He was a committed and loving husband and father for whom family was always the priority. Pete could often be found at any number of sporting events or arts performances in support of his children, or spending time with Brenda and the kids camping, canoeing or cross-country skiing. He was thrilled when he became a grandfather, and spending time with his grandchildren quickly became his favourite pastime. Known for his love of puns and slapstick comedy, Pete took great pride in keeping his family laughing and enjoying each moment that life offered.
Pete was an extraordinary person - a quiet, gentle soul who made a lasting impression on all whose lives he touched. His presence enriched our world and we have been fortunate to have had him in our lives. He will be greatly missed.
A Celebration of Life for Peter will be held on Saturday, September 24th at St. Andrew's United Church, commencing at 2pm. Following this service there will be a time of remembrance and refreshments in the Church Hall.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a donation be made to the BC Heart & Stroke Foundation or to the Knowledge Network.