Peter Walter Rolston
Peter Walter Rolston
Obituary
Guest Book
Peter Rolston Obituary
ROLSTON _ Peter Walter, Entertainer. Loving husband, father, grandfather and friend to many exited his earthly stage on Tuesday, June 6th, 2006. He will be missed by Barb, his beloved wife of 44 years; their 2 daughters Karsha (Dean) and Tanya (Dan); grandchildren D.J., Miranda, Alycia and Josh and loving sister Sharon (Kirk) plus nieces, nephews and many devoted loyal fans, theatrical associates and personal friends. Peter was born in Vancouver January 12th, 1936 and following his schooling he continued to develop his dream of becoming an entertainer. Humor, magic, ventriloquism and his assortment of dummies, George and Cindy. This enabled him to win the Actra Award for Best B.C. Children's Show in 1978. His t.v. program "Pete's Place" entertained children and adults alike from 1963 - 1979. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 13th in the Gizeh Temple, 3550 Wayburne Drive, Burnaby. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Gizeh Patient Transportation Society c/o Gizeh Temple. As Peter would say, "Thanks for coming out to the show, drive safely because I'm walking."View All Photos
Add Photos to Memorial
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
69 Entries
Fred Howell
June 27, 2025
I actually shared the stage with him once in Ferndale WA, USA. I was still in high school and he was very friendly, encouraging and approachable. Rest in peace friend
JoAnne Drew
April 3, 2025
I used to watch Pete´s Place in the mid-late 60´s as a 10 year old and on. One time my dad caught a bit of the show and he laughed at something Pete said that went over my head. Dad said that Pete slips in funnies for the parents, too. I liked that!
Danny Bryant
May 30, 2023
I met Peter when I was 7 or 8 years old. His sister, Sharon taught piano lessons from their home and I got to meet the suitcase with the dummy inside! I remember Peter putting on a little show at a piano recital back then.
Jack Watson
May 19, 2023
Peter was a gem. I had the pleasure of going to Peters home for coffee on a number of occasions. Always great conversation he was so genuine.
Miss you my friend.
Jack
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Flavia Corbella
March 12, 2023
I was just reminiscing about favourite childhood shows and of course, Pete's Place was one of them. It prompted me to look up Peter Rolston and was saddened to see he had passed away.
He certainly had a very positive impact on so many people. He was a talented and funny man. We all have fond memories of his show.
Gary Gunderson
November 13, 2022
Thank you Peter for all your great wholesome entertainment for so many years.
Reg Tucker
March 22, 2021
Met Peter in 1983 , and communicated with him regularly while I also performed. We were both Mason’s and Shriners.
Drove him to a gig in Yorkton , Sask , in the ‘80’s. Visited him at his home in Vancouver also. We both shared Irish , heritage.
A very interesting and talented man.
Judy Chartrand
December 30, 2020
I was 8 yrs old, walking down East Hastings street with my older sister. I was bawling my eyes out because our Mom walked out and left us alone. We were heading over to my aunt's place just off of Glen Drive. He approached us and he asked, "What's wrong little girl? Why are you crying? I recognized him from TV...we watched Pete's Place on a regular basis. If it had of been another day, I would have been so thrilled to meet him. I still remember...I'm 62 now. Rest in Peace and Love...you were a kind human.
Cynthia Samara (sam) McLennan
December 11, 2020
I'm Cyndi, as in the Cindy doll/character. We met when I was a child at the recording of his show at channel 8 studio. My mom did makeup there, so I got to visit. He asked if it would be okay to make a Cindy doll after me, blond braids and all. I was so honoured.
My mom and I were just reminiscing about those times, so I thought I'd look Peter up on the internet.
Cyndi Samara (Sam) McLennan needed Stackhouse
December 10, 2020
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Craig Anctil
March 27, 2019
A great human being. Pete will be missed by so many people. A brilliant man who touched the lives of so many people. If there is a heaven, Pete is surely there.
Caren Pritchard
April 17, 2018
My Grandfather taught Pete some magic...he was the president of the Vancouver Magic Circle for a few years. I was on his tv show when I was a child...probably around 1967, and met him again when my children were young and I took them to his show when he came to Williams Lake. He was wonderful. A man of many talents!
John Ambrose
December 29, 2017
Hi, what a great man! he was always so caring- you could seen it in his eye's and hear it in his voice! I absolutely loved his show, all the characters were awesome, I'm 58 grew up in Ocean Park - white rock, and then over to the island - Parksville '70,
I couldn't wait till Pete's Place came on tv, I will miss him alot! I even sent a picture too, hehe good times, thank you for making my days bright and cheerful Pete, you made my day's!!☺
Yvonne H.
May 15, 2016
I'm sorry to hear learn of his passing. Pete's Place was a big deal to primary grade kids in the 1970s. There were no DVRs back then. So the bell would ring at noon, and we ran home to watch it. I'm sure it came on at 12:05. I sent a little kids drawing to his show, and he showed it one day. I was famous at school a half hour later. Good times. We really did sprint home to watch it.
Kenn Custance
April 2, 2015
I remember being in the hospital ,and you came to do a live show for al the children- but a couple of them were scared of your with puppet , so they wouldn't let our group watch- I was heartbroken- I loved your show
wayne wood
February 16, 2015
i too wish i could go back in time ... miss ya cousin pete
john schneberk
January 10, 2015
I was the Hamburglar and Pete was Ronald McDonald, we did shows for kids at McDonalds and parades in the summer of 76, i grew up watching Pete's place, he was a great guy, condolences.
May 24, 2012
Bruce Taylor
April 17, 2010
I never did find out until almost now of Peter Rolston passing. I wondered what ever happend to him. I remember shortly after our family immigrated to Canada from New Zealand back in June 1967, my brother and I every morning throughout the summer of that year, would switch on the TV to watch his then popular show "Pete's Place" (which also used to come on late in the afternoon only as an opening to some other then popular TV series such as "The Munsters", "The Monkeys" just to name a couple, but nevertheless, we as kids then really enjoyed his show with all his puppet characters George,Cindy,Grumpy,Doople etc. Such a shame to learn we lost a very talented entertaining man.
alycia rolston
April 26, 2009
i miss you so much grandpa!!!!
i want you back so bad!!! i love you so much .. ill see you soon its not goodbye its see you later! love you so much!!!
Ron
September 28, 2007
I guess it's never too late to say goodbye. I did not realize that we had lost Peter Rolston.
I remember as a small child that I was afraid of ventriloquist dummies, and yet I watched Pete's Place everyday and never felt frightend. And I never thought of George and Cindy as anything but George and Cindy. I think it was people like Peter who helped most of us as Canadians to be kinder and gentler people.
Dave Warfield
May 8, 2007
I was shocked and saddened to hear that Peter had passed away. It seems I had just seen him last year at my uncle's funeral. I remember fondly Pete's Place, the shows he did with George and Cindy, and of course his secret work with McDonalds... he had a huge impact on my childhood. I know how difficult it is to lose someone close, and I hope you can all take comfort in the fact he made such an impact on the people he touched in his life, and that he is now in a better place. Karsha and family, my thoughts are with you, and I am sorry I could not have let you know this sooner.
Belinda Lay (nee Verra)
September 15, 2006
I remember going to see Peter at various store appearances. As a child, I went to several of these events in a row and twice he remembered me by name. I will never forget how special I felt when he recognized me. Much strength to all who were close to him. He is a very special human being.
Tanya Rolston
August 7, 2006
As I read throw the many letters you all have written about my Dad it makes me miss him even more.He was everything you have said about him and more,much much more.I will miss him calling me up to take me for coffe at Tim Hortins or he would always find some little tea house to go to,you never know who he would run into, and they always would say hay arent you "PETER ROLSTON"He loved that!
carolyn taylor
August 3, 2006
Dear Barb. and Family,
How well I remember Pete's distinctive voice and laugh. His
happy disposition.
We have lost a very special person. He will be sadly missed.
Karsha Rolston
August 3, 2006
Hi We would just like to say thanks to every one that has signed the guest book.
Love Karsha, Tanya, Barb and Family
Karsha Rolston
July 1, 2006
I miss him very much. He would always just drop in to my work and take me to lunch. I miss that a whole lot. Love your #1 daughter Karsha
David Frinton
July 1, 2006
I only found out last night about the passing of Peter and am deeply saddened. We had many terrific experiences over the years at numerous events where he performed (including several of my own birthday parities). We went fishing a few years ago together in Campbell River and laughed the whole time. Peter was a very funny man, had such a lovely, friendly disposition and was always a friend. I will miss him, as will anyone who has ever truly known him. My deepest sympathy to his family.
...and by the way - we did catch a salmon!
Carol Blair
June 29, 2006
we will remember the neighbourhood of King Albert Street for a long time with fond memories.
Norm Drew
June 21, 2006
It's a shock and deeply saddening to learn of Peter Rolston's passing.
I first had the honor and pleasure of meeting Peter at BCTV when the children's series I was hosting, 'Gastown Gang' followed 'Pete's Place'.
'Pete's Place', was such a popular fixture for so many years, and such a great series, it was a 'tough act to follow'.
We chatted on the phone over the past three decades, sharing stories and insights into our various sides of 'show biz'.
Peter was a wonderful human being, a kind man and a great entertainer.
The world is indeed better for his having been with us, cheering our lives with such good and gentle fun.
'Show business' in general, and BC's entertainment industry in particular, have suffered a great loss.
Quite simply, everyone loved Peter.
He will surely be missed, but will always be remembered and cherished by his many fans, and by those of us lucky enough to have known him.
My heartfelt sympathy to Peter's family.
Robert Richardson
June 20, 2006
For the Rolston family I extend my heartfelt sympathies for your loss. I was one of the young audience members for whom "Pete's Place" was a delight, something I wish the generations of today could experience. Peter obviously brought so much joy and laughter to people of all ages throughout the years. Such a precious gift is that, and we are richer for it.
Dawn Turner
June 20, 2006
July 20th 2006.
To friends and family of our beloved Peter Rolston. I have worked with Peter for almost 14 years. I will miss his smile, sense of style and most of all his contagiouse laugter. He is a man of many talents and stenghts. May his legend live on in our hearts and memories.
Love Red The Clown/Magical Parrani.
Kenneth McGrath
June 20, 2006
I had the pleasure of meeting Pete in my thirties - a full twenty some years after I read his book on ventriloquism.
We did an interview which was published on-line and he kept in touch by regular mail afterwards.
I'm not sure if I conveyed to Pete just how important he was to me (although I did try to let him know) but it was Pete who first taught me "vent" and for that I will always be grateful.
Your voice lives on, Petey-me-boy.
John Macmillan
June 15, 2006
I’m one of the thousands of the “boomer” generation that grew up on a steady diet of Peter Rolston. Remembering those early days of Pete’s Place still brings a smile to my face.
Forty plus years later I was fortunate enough to come to know Peter through common friends in the Vancouver Magic Circle. He hadn’t changed since 1963!
I last saw him perform at Stan Kramiens’ Magic Jamboree in Newberg, Oregon – May 2006. The shows were wonderful! I’ll always remember Peter doing “the crying baby”, “the old man act”, and Sally losing her shoe.
Travel well brother.
Michael Likey
June 15, 2006
I remember first meeting Peter in the '80's at a fair our agent had booked for us in Brandon, Manitoba!
I was so inspired by Peter's kindness and professionalism, that I never forgot him, until the early '90's when I relocated to Vancouver and looked up the business-card he had given me back then.
He remembered me, and we shared many coffees at Westminster Quay,(where I had my magic-shop).
It was thanks to Peter that I began using an upright trunk on wheels to transport my props and perform my illusions from.
Thank-you Peter, for all the inspiration, kind words, and happiness and laughs you brought to your audiences as well as to myself.
Your impish smile will not soon be forgotten.
Dale Downing
June 14, 2006
I cannot express how saddened I was to hear of Peter's passing. He was truly a kind and gentle man through and through.
I first met Peter while performing at a fair in the mid 70's and was very fortunate to work with him many, many times since then.
Sharing a stage with Peter was always fun. You were never quite sure what was going to happen - and if you asked Peter, he would always claim he wasn't sure either!
George was always trouble, Cindy never did find her shoe and Peter always made me laugh!
I will miss you, Peter.
Backstage won't be the same without you.
Linda
June 13, 2006
I never met Peter Ralston in person, but remember him fondly from childhood, watching “Pete’s Place”. I’ve read the other entries, and I’ve enjoyed reading about what Mr. Ralston got up to in more recent times. He was obviously very well loved.
Thanks for the memories!
Corinne Trembath (nee Andersen)
June 13, 2006
My brothers and I (now in our 40's)enjoyed many "Pete's Place" TV shows as well as live performances. Pete had a wonderful gift and a special way of connecting with both the young and young at heart. Thanks for the warm childhood memories!
Johnny and Sandy Haydn
June 12, 2006
Dear Peter, it seems like only yesterday we saw you at the celebration of John Murdochs life and here we are again celebrating yours. Thankyou for making us smile and laugh over the years. A talent that is truly difficult to come by. BUT you will be making some of out friends laugh again and John will be there to welcome you in. It was a pleasure knowing you. Our heartfelt thoughts are with your dear wife Barbara and family.
Lois Boone
June 12, 2006
Dear Barb & family, I am so sorry to hear of Peter's passing. I, and many other people will surely miss his wit and many talents. I have many fond memories of never knowing what he would be up to doing next. My thoughts are with all of you at this time.
"Cuz" Lois Boone and family
Steven Best
June 11, 2006
I remember the times spent with Peter backstage getting ready to perform, he was a kind, and wonderful person to be around. Our trip to perfom in Bella Coola, B.C. his yearly show...etc where all great memorys and time spent with Peter. He will be greatly missed by all.
-Steven Best
Chet Dickenson
June 11, 2006
I was a very fortunate perosn to have met Peter in 2000 at the home of a friend. We were gathered there to talk ventriloquism. I really got to know Peter even better when I was able to spend some time with him last year at Cana-Vent, the Canadian ventriloquist convention. He was one of the quickest wits Ive ever met, and a true gentleman who never ceased to give a helping hand to a fellow ventriloquist. I'll miss him.
Colleen &David(Hambone) Hamil
June 11, 2006
I came home one night after meeting Peter at many different functions and told my wife about this very nice and funny man named Peter Rolston. She said, “Do you know who he is?” with this look on her face. She told me about the TV show, “Pete’s Place”. I told her, “all I know about the man was I was glad that our paths crossed in this life and I am richer for it. May we both meet again on the level in front of the GM of the U. Thanks, Bro.Peter.
Bobbie & Al Michel
June 11, 2006
Our children watched "Pete's Place" every morning before school.
As a family our family got to know Pete and Barb, and later Karsha and Tanya at Port Moody Lanes as bowlers then later as friends.
Our sincere sympathy to all of you.
Peter and Liz Barrett
June 11, 2006
I was so sorry to hear of Peter's passing.
I first met Pete at John Murdoch's home where we would always have a few great laughs. John used to say when Pete arrived at the door, "Oh not you again, Peter!" I'm sure that when Pete arrived at the Pearly Gates John was be there to greet him in the same way. "Not you again!"
We all loved his wit, smile and great talent. Our lives have all been changed, in some way, by him.
What will I do without you to sell me magic stuff,Peter?
Thanks for all the fine entertainment and enjoyment that you provided everyone, you will be sadly missed. Heartfelt condolences to all his family.
Laura Ness (nee Rogers)
June 10, 2006
As a little girl (41 years old now) I remember Peter coming to visit at my Aunt & Uncle's house. He always put on a little show for all of us cousins. It was such a thrill to have the TV show actually happening right in front of us. My brother and I would spend days afterwards practicing our own Ventriliquism skills! Thanks for the great childhood memories.
Janet Roberge(Bryce)
June 10, 2006
What a gift . Some people are lucky to have such a gift and others are lucky to have a part in smiling at that gilft and I am thankful I got to smile while I was growing up.
Heather Lahoda
June 10, 2006
I just learned of 'uncle Peter's' passing. I close my eyes and can still see his infectious smile. I remember being proud that my 'uncle' was the Pete of Pete's place when I was a child. He touch the lives of so many in such a positive way. He offered me comfort with the passing of my parents recently (dad Jimmy first then my mom Frances). Unfortunately the only chance I got to see him lately was at funeral services. God bless you Uncle Peter...may your family be consoled to know that you were loved by, and touched the lives of so many and that you will truly be missed . With much love and respect, Heather (Bryce) Lahoda
Val Hilliker
June 10, 2006
Pete, the voices in my head are yours. Thank you for your integrity, sincerity and encouraging kind words. You are one of a kind and will be deeply missed
Gale Honey
June 10, 2006
Peter was a very special person...and a super talent.. I feel he is entertaining the angels and trading tricks with Rick... they are enjoying a big laugh with each other... my thoughts are with you all... Gale
Bill Elliott
June 9, 2006
Canada lost a great children's TV performer from the 60's and 70's.
Vice President ( retired ) BCTV
Tony Eng
June 9, 2006
Peter...
We entertained thousands, even more... hundreds. We will miss performing with you; all the gigs and tours.
Who knows, maybe one day we'll get called to entertain the big guy in the sky.
Until that time Peter... we will miss you dearly.
Tony & Ann Eng
Sherri (Hunt) Todd
June 9, 2006
I am saddened to hear of Peters' passing, and I'm sending my sincere condolences to his wife, family and friends.
As a childhood fan of Peters', I enjoyed the fun and magic he created on BCTV's Pete's Place and Carousel. His talent and personality brought enjoyment to audiences of all ages, over the years. I sent the one and only fan letter I ever sent anyone, -to Peter.
I later had the opportunity to do some community events and promotional work for BCTV, with Peter, George and Cindy, - and and was thrilled to do so.
Peter will always be remembered fondly by many, - for both his ability to entertain, as well as for being just a very nice gentleman.
I'm glad I had the chance to know him!
Susie Francis
June 9, 2006
For many years Peter has been my friend and I shall miss him very much. From the dancing Pig.
Dennis Hewson
June 9, 2006
When our children were growing up we would always watch Peter "Pete's Place" on our television. Last year we met Peter at a Society of American Magicians meeting at our home. He came as a guest. Over the past year he became a friend. He was a gentle person, a pleasure to know. We will miss Peter, Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Dennis & Melody Hewson
Peter Chipman
June 9, 2006
Dear Barb & Family,
Every so often a charming, talented and wonderful person comes along and you found him. Peter Rolston was that man and the world is a better place for his being here. I am glad I knew him and had the pleasure to work with him a long time ago. Bless you Peter.
Alycia Rolston
June 9, 2006
My Grandpa..
He was one heck of a guy. He was more like my best friend then my grandpa..
I just new him as my ‘best grandpa’
I remember when I was little, Spending all the time with him as I could.
My mom & grandma would go out bowling… that’s when trouble started,
The nickname we could have had was double trouble, my grandpa acted like he was my age 5
Letting me paint on the floors, Pretending he never new.
Eating chocolate, running around and having a blast.
I wish I could go back to the past.. But I cant so I wrote a small poem.
Grandpa I love you,
And I always will...
I'll miss you,
In so many ways...
Now that you've gone away,
I just want to say...
That I love you Grandpa,
And I'll miss you everyday...
And all the memories will never fade away.
Linda Jones
June 9, 2006
My sincere condolences to Peter's family. He was a long time entertainment associate and member of Vancouver's "Backstage Social Club". Peters' unique brand of entertainment was always refreshing and the mischief in his eyes told all. He will be sorely missed by all of his peers at the Backstage Club as well as all of us fans that have so enjoyed the years of laughter his wonderful humour brought to us and for the essense of the man he was .. It was always a pleasure to work with Peter .. always the professional .. always the smile .. Thank You Peter for sharing yourself and your amazing talent with the world.
Much love .. Linda Jones
Past President of the "Backstage Club".
Barbara Kriss
June 9, 2006
As a little girl I loved to watch your show I'm sorry that you've gone. You made an impact on my life
Gillian Campbell'Thompson
June 9, 2006
Dear Peter..Thank you for your Friendship for so many Years...I loved your laugh..especially when a GIG didnt come through..but you never ever gave up...We will all miss you so much...our Hearts go out to Barbara and your Family..God Bless you and I am sure Johnny Murdoch will be at the Pearly Gates to meet you...Love Edward Gillian and Family oxoxo
Ray Roch
June 9, 2006
Peter was a dear friend who will be sadly missed. I have met very few people in my life with the charm, enthusiasm and child like spirit that Peter displayed on and off stage. Peter was truly a great entertainer, but an even greater human being! My heart goes out to his dear wife Barb and family.
David Wilson
June 9, 2006
To the Rolston Family...
Peter touched the world with so many gifts. When I first met him back in 1978 I was a budding ventriloquist starting my carreer. Later I worked with him on many occassions on the fair circut across western Canada. I was saddened to hear of his passing and I know that the rest of the Ventriloquism community will miss his keen sense of humour and his presence.
Godspeed Peter,
David R. Wilson
Venriloquist
Conrad Hartz
June 9, 2006
Thanks for your wonderful entertainment.........!!!
Conrad Hartz
WORLDVENTS List
Neale Bacon
June 9, 2006
Peter was a wonderful friend, mentor and teacher. I will miss his laugh and the ever present twinkle in his eye.
Paul Hooson
June 9, 2006
I worked with Peter very early in my career as a children's entertainer, opening for him in a Christmas show in Whitehorse(1975). He was the first professional Canadian variety artist that I had the opportunity of working with, and warmly encouraged me to continue performing for children.
Over the years, our paths crossed once in a very long while, and he always had a ready laugh, big smile, and positive attitude that obviously ran deep.
I now work frequently in Children's Hospitals as a Therapeutic Clown Doctor, and think of his legacy to me. His picture is still in the hall of Sunnyhill Health Centre for Children, and I see it often, taking pleasure and comfort from a man that showed us the way.
Rest well, Peter. You were an original.
"Doc Willikers",
"Cirque Alexander"
Sandi Bezanson-Chan
June 9, 2006
Wow, first Ernie (Coombs) then Bob (Homme) and now Pete. I feel like my childhood is slipping away icon by icon. Please accept my sincere condolences. I know your family is comforted by the knowledge that Pete gave so much happiness to so many children for so many years.
Glenn Williams
June 9, 2006
Thank you Peter. Because of your influence on this 7 year old boy, 37 years ago, I have followed my passion and dreams. I was amazed at the art of Ventriloquism and learned quickly with your help. Later to find myself as a regular young guest on your show. "Pete's Place" will always hold a special place in my heart and memories. Today I am an Actor/Entertainer starring in my own Children's TV show using the art of Ventriloquism because of this talented gifted man...thank you! Though your stage lights have dimmed, you'll be missed by many, remembered by millions. With much sorrow, God's Speed Peter.
Fred Anderson
June 9, 2006
Peter will be dearly missed by those of us in the ventriloquist community. My condolences go to his wife and family.
Showing 1 - 69 of 69 results
Make a Donation
in Peter Rolston's name
How to support Peter's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Peter Rolston's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
