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Shared Memories |
March 12, 2008
When Peter joined our family nearly 14 years ago, we watched with amused anticipation to see what would happen when the irresistible force of nature that is my sister Rose-Marie met the immovable object that was Peter – and we were delighted to see them cherish and respect each other without compromising their individual selves. I am sure that Peter watched us with equal amusement – he was a quiet man, and he missed nothing.
I loved Peter for many reasons, first of all, of course, because he made my sister’s heart sing. Secondly, he admired and respected strong women - this is not as universal as I would like it to be. And lastly, Peter was such a dear, kind man. He was so good to me - a smile and a hug from Peter were as good as a tonic. He adored the little ones in our family, and was thoughtful and kind to the seniors. With Rose-Marie, he drove our 2 elderly aunts to Montreal to visit my daughter when she was seriously ill. He helped us when we were producing a book to celebrate our aunt’s 90th birthday – he chose the book colour (green – “she’s Irish, isn’t she?”) and suggested that we get special bookmarks made; and he chose the music for the book launch… music was very dear to him. I will remember him whenever I see those charming bookmarks, or whenever I hear any swing-era music, or whenever I look at my gas gauge (anything under 1/3 full was frowned upon by Peter). I will remember him always.
June Miller (Ottawa, ON)
March 2, 2008
Too young to leave us. Our deepest sympathy to Rose-Marie and family. We remember Peter's practical nature (keeping guest toothbrushes at the cottage) and his quiet sense of humour. We are thankful we were able to share conversation and laughs with Peter and Rose-Marie last October. We will miss these times.
With sadness, Kathy & John. (Edmonton, AB)
February 29, 2008
Please accept our condolences at this sad time.
Bernie and Shirley Limoges
February 29, 2008
Peter will be sadly missed by so many of us who had the good fortune to know him as a friend and as a colleague. I remember his enthusiasm for early jazz and the music of the Big Band era, and his encyclopedic knowledge of the artists and their music. Whenever we talked about the music he loved, I knew that he was really ‘into it’ and that I was about to add to my store of music lore. Peter was like that...no half measures. His passion was seldom expressed with overt flair, but always with quiet enthusiasm and certitude. I remember, as well, the keen enthusiasm he had for his work as an educator and administrator when we worked together at Osgoode Township High School and at the brand new West Carleton Secondary School. When West Carleton Secondary School was being built, he signed on as Head of Administration before the rest of the staff was hired. It was Peter’s experience, insight, and passion for doing things right that contributed immeasurably to the successful launch of the new school. During the many years we worked together, his quiet, steady hand as a teacher and administrator earned him the appreciation and support of the students, his teaching colleagues and the support staff. Students could count on him to listen with understanding and to offer level headed advice. Teachers trusted his judgment. All of us valued his integrity. He was an outstanding educator and, to a great many of us, a valued friend. I am sorry that Peter had to leave us so soon. He leaves me with wonderful memories of years we spent together as colleagues and friends. My heartfelt sympathy is extended to Rose-Marie and to his children, Laura and Michael.
Peter Norman (Victoria, BC)
February 29, 2008
Rose-Marie, I'm so sorry for your loss. He will be missed by many.
Andrea Alexander (Petawawa, ON)
February 28, 2008
Wow!! It's hard to believe that a person such as Peter has been taken from us at such an early age. I can still remember his coming to Gloucester H. S. as a guidance counsellor and how he also taught Business Subjects when asked. Peter was a great coach to many hockey players as the team was revived at GHS and went on to make all Gators proud. He excelled as a Guidance counsellor and Dept. Head and was such an asset to the whole school. His career as an Admin Head was also one to be proud of as he helped many a rookie Admin Hd. escape from disaster.
Both as a colleague and a dear friend, Peter has been a big part of my life both professionally and socially. Nancy and I are sorry we cannot be there to share with Peter's families since we are visiting our daughter in Arizona.
Our sincere condolences to Rose Marie and her family, to Miriam, Michael and Laura and their families.
Peter will be greatly missed by all.
Sincerely: Dan and Nancy Ryan (White Lake, ON)
February 27, 2008
Thinking of all the Van Houten family at this sad time. Let the fond memories and the good times you had help your hearts start on the journey to healing.You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Susan and David Christie (Victoria, BC)
February 27, 2008
It is with such fond memories that I will remember Peter. I was extremely fortunate, as a rookie vice-principal at SCHS, to have Peter as my fellow VP. He never hesitated to open his door of knowledge and experience to me and I truly valued his advice and guidance. I also deeply appreciated that at any time, I could enter his office and close the door, and he would not only listen, but cared. I am so sorry that I could not be there to personally express my sincere condolences. May your most treasured memories provide you with a source of hope and light as you pass through this difficult time.
Tracey Armstrong (Charlottesville, VA)
February 27, 2008
My condolences. I taught at Gloucester with Peter.
Stephen Margetts (Elgin, ON)