PETER CARLETON HOLMES

PETER CARLETON HOLMES July 31, 1962 - December 28, 2014 It is with immense sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Peter at Toronto East General Hospital with his family at his side. Dear son of Norma and the late Robert Holmes. Predeceased by his beloved brothers Ted, Tommy and Christopher and his cherished sisters Cathy and Marilyn. Left to mourn are his sisters Dory, Cheryl (Dan) and Patsy (Gary) and his brothers Gary (Deyanne), Richard, Marvin and Rob (Marian). Peter, diagnosed with pancreatic cancer only one month ago spent his final four weeks of life in Intensive Care. Fighting pneumonia, his treatments were painful and exhausting, requiring him to be on a ventilator, rendering him speechless. Peter was courageous throughout and, unbelievably, good-natured and optimistic, hoping until the end that he might have life-saving surgery. Peter was a teacher - he taught us how to be brave. Beset with health problems since infancy, he faced many challenges throughout his life, including stigma. Still, he remained stoic. His mother Norma was his chief advocate and primary caregiver for most of his short life. Their deep love and respect for one another was beautiful and inspiring. During his month in hospital, he worried constantly about Mom's well-being, yet he discouraged her visits for fear it would be too hard on her. The night before he died, his mother was taken to his side. To witness that final meeting was no less than a privilege. Peter was blessed with a phenomenal memory and his gift for numbers and dates was a source of entertainment. He was an innocent - a sweet, gentle giant. Darling Peter, we will miss you terribly and promise to think of you everyday. Our deepest gratitude to Sue McKechnie, Marianne Cheetham and Dr. Ashamalla of South Riverdale Community Health Centre. Cremation has taken place. The family will celebrate Peter's life privately, followed by interment at Mount Pleasant Cemetery.