Peter Christopher NEWTON

1939 - 2022

PETER CHRISTOPHER NEWTON Peter passed away peacefully in the late afternoon of October 18, 2022, at the age of 83, after a long courageous battle with Parkinson's Disease and its complications. In his last moments, he was held and cared for by his 'girls': Annette, his wife and companion for 50 years; and daughters, Jennifer and Samantha. Born September 29, 1939, in Calcutta, India, the only child of Wing Commander W. Guy Newton (IAF) and May J. Bell, Peter led an accomplished life rich with family, sports, career and travel. Peter was a force. A vibrant man and a true gentleman, the life and soul of any room from his earliest days. His quick wit, biting sense of humour, notable charm and penchant for breaking into song (or reciting Shakespeare) was shaped through his years studying at boarding schools in India and England, and universities in England (Leicester), Canada (University of Toronto) and the US (Harvard). His remarkable career was spent dedicated to Unilever's expansion across the globe: a 25 year tenure leading companies in their Food and Beverage portfolio, which would see him and his family experience the world together. But he would just tell you he 'sells tea'. A lifetime athlete, he broke records (and perhaps a few hearts) during his time as a scholastic athlete, excelling at hammer throw and shot-put, at one particular meet breaking the national schoolboys record with each throw thereby becoming National Champion. In university he went on to compete in the Word Student Games and qualified for the Commonwealth games. His passion for sport continued throughout his life. Any player who has met him on the tennis court can attest to Peter's zest, might and competitive drive, no one more than his wife Annette, who introduced him to the game and together they went on to win many club championships. Peter is survived by his wife and longtime love, Annette, daughters Jennifer and Samantha (Kevin Whitaker), grandchildren Benjamin and Sage, bonus grandchildren, and many cousins. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful staff at Oakville Trafalgar Memorial hospital, their tireless, compassionate and impeccable care provided Peter with peace and dignity in his final days. A private celebration of life will be held for the family in Canada and later by the sea at his home in Naples, Florida. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Peter's honour to one of his preferred organizations: Parkinson Canada; The Movement Disorders Research Clinic at Toronto Western Hospital; or Educate Girls, Mumbai.