Peter Richmond Willis

WILLIS, Peter Richmond February 12, 1924 to January 22, 2019 We sadly announce that Peter Richmond Willis passed away quietly on Tuesday, January 22, 2019 with a full head of hair three weeks shy of his 95th birthday. He would be annoyed at not being here for his 95th as he was always reminding his kids that 'not only was he the oldest living member of the family, but he was the reason we were all here!' Predeceased by his father Frank, mother Mary Agnes, and brother Robert, and survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Wendy and children of his first wife Mary - Margaret (Gordon), Christine, Rick (Maryann), and Liz (Tom), 7 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Peter always loved Galiano Island because he had very fond memories of spending his summers there at his Aunt and Uncle's home, and later taking his children also for their summer holidays on Galiano. He usually worked several jobs to support his family, early in the morning dropping off newspaper bundles up the island, driving truck during the day, and dropping off the mail at the midnight boat. His last job of 24 years was as a janitor at St. Joseph's Hospital and then at Victoria General Hospital. He was a Cub and Scout Leader, then a Youth Group Leader at St. Saviour's Anglican Church. He was very popular at the dances because he could jitter bug and do all the dances really well. He loved to make chocolate Easter bunnies for his grandchildren every year. When retired, he spent hours trying to do Word Search puzzles and studying the Bible. He immensely enjoyed wood carving and one of his favorites was of 'ships'. He gave away most of his carvings that he put much time and effort into. He always wanted to be at the front door of the church to greet everyone and make them feel welcome. He enjoyed teasing people claiming that 'it was his way of letting you know he liked you'. He loved to sing in the choir and when not singing there, he would make up his own songs and/or words at anything that came to mind. He enjoyed travelling in the motor home after meeting Wendy and they travelled Washington, Alberta and BC. They also travelled the US by Amtrak as he loved trains his whole life. Peter's bucket list included a cruise to Alaska. It was a cherished memory for him that he continued to talk of. Because of his love of Galiano, Peter would love if you thought of him fondly when passing Galiano island A memorial service will be held on Sunday, February 10th at 2:00 p.m. at Christ Community Church, 3897 Holland Avenue, Victoria, B.C. and afterwards a slide show and refreshments. Please bring any of your memories and/or pictures you have of Peter and come celebrate his long life or send online to PeterPan3831@gmail.com. Kindly please donate to your favourite charity or Choose Life Victoria Society, Box 48051,3511 Blanshard St., Victoria, BC V8Z 7H5 in lieu of flowers.