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Peter Donaldson Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Peter Donaldson
41 Entries
Sharon Gascho
January 24, 2011
Sheila, Mackenzie and Drew
I was so saddened to hear of Peters passing. My sincerest sympathy to you all as you remember a wonderful husband and father.
Sheila, we met at the Y in Stratford and we shared the common thread of being a caregiver.
My heart goes out to you and your family.
Sharon Gascho
Peter MacNeill
January 18, 2011
As a work or sailing mate Pete was the best... just getting to really know you and you are gone. Fair wind to you sir.
Jacky Finch
January 17, 2011
My deepest sympathy goes out to Peter's family and friends. I had the good fortune to see a number of his performances in Stratford and Toronto. He was an amazingly versatile actor and could always be relied on to give a great performance - I'm hard-pressed to chose my favourite among them - the title role in "Timon of Athens", George in "Whose Afraid of Virginia Wolff?" stand out, but if I was forced to chose only one, it would probably be his glorious performance as Atticus Finch in "To Kill A Mockingbird", in particular his scenes with Scout in which he displayed such warmth and tenderness He was also one of our favourite guests at the Stratford Summer Seminars - always warm, charming and humorous; I ran into him in Toronto last year and spoke to him about how much we enjoyed his visits to the SSS. He will be greatly missed by everybody who knew and admired him. Rest in Peace, Peter.
valerie, vaughan mclellan
January 16, 2011
Our deepest sympathy to you and your girls at this sad time. We know your happy and cherished memories of Peter will sustain all of you as you go on in years to come.
The Paris Family
January 16, 2011
We were priviledged to have had Peter and his family for neighbours in Midland.
Our memories of what a kind, nice and
talented person Peter was. He was a
fine flute player as well. We kept track of his theatrical career and enjoyed watching his performances. Our
condolences go out to his family.
Our sincere sympathy goes out to Peters family.
Carol Forte
January 15, 2011
Sincere condolences to Sheila and the family.
Keith Baker
January 15, 2011
Sheila, Mackenzie and Drew
Our thoughts are with you at this time of great loss.
We enjoyed so many of Peter's performances on stage and screen and were excited when we were able to visit with you and the family in PEI and share some dinners in Stratford.
It was with great pride that Peter talked about Mackenzie and Drew when we were able to get together.
Love
The Baker Cousins
January 15, 2011
Dear Sheila and Girls, We had the very great pleasure of meeting both you and Peter as neighbours at Christie Beach. I loved to see both of you walking on the beach, sometimes with Bob. Peter was a very humble man regarding his tremendous talents and we enjoyed seeing him at Stratford as well as sharing a glass of wine at the fire pit at the beach. He showed much empathy to me when my own brother, Peter ,died a few years ago and I shall always remember that kindness. Our love and sympathy go out to all of you in the days ahead. Warmest Regards, Gary and Ellie Shaw
Luanne Thomas
January 15, 2011
So sorry to hear of Peters passing. I have many wonderful memories of growing up with him and being such great friends. I have always kept those memories close to my heart. Luanne Lattimore (Thomas)
John & Bonnee McBride
January 15, 2011
Dan and family,
Our condolences.
Amy Sellors
January 14, 2011
Shelia, I was so saddened to hear of Peter's passing. I loved having the opportunity to work with him - with both of you - in Threepenny. I so fondly remember the day we girls managed to make him laugh onstage. We had no idea what we had done to get him going, but he seemed to enjoy the moment so much that we all started laughing, having no idea why. It was so enriching getting to know him. Such a gracious man.
I remember being in your kitchen one day and Peter was installing a tin ceiling. I told him I was moving into the house on St David Street that he had once owned. He said, with a mischievous glint in his eye, that I would never feel lonely in that house. I asked him if it was haunted. He wouldn't say. He just said that I would never feel lonely in that house. And strangely, I never did. It's funny that of all of my memories of working with him on stage, or watching him from the audience, this is the memory that keeps coming to mind.
I cannot imagine how hard this must be for you and the girls. You have my deepest condolences.
Deb Theaker
January 13, 2011
Sheila, I am so very sorry for your loss.Love and light to you and the girls.
Shelley Lemick
January 13, 2011
Growing up in Midland, I was very lucky to have a group of young men who were true friends to my brothers. Peter, of course was one of the group. As a young 13 year old he taught me how to ski and had such patience. I was always thrilled when he helped direct a school play and they turned out fabulous. As the years went by, my daughter entered UofT in acting and Peter encouraged her choice. Until last month he sent emails to my family encouraging us with lifes difficulties. I will always remember his laugh and his teriffic smile. A gentleman is how I always will remember him. A proud family man, a great actor, and a wonderful husband and father. Sleep well my friend, and thanks again for always staying true.
Shelley
Patricia LaNauze
January 13, 2011
Deep condolences on Peter's passing. Peter and I were in high school together in Midland and even shared the occasional stage in that regard. He was a remarkable man and a remarkable talent, and I am sorry for the family's loss, as well as that of the theatre community.
Janet Macdonald
January 13, 2011
Mr. Donaldson was a regular guest at and a favourite of the Stratford Summer Seminars. As a member of the SSS for several years I have many fond memories of his intelligence, humour and generosity. I am honoured to have known him in this way in addition to having seen his many of his wondeful performances in Stratford and Toronto. He enriched our lives and we are grateful.
Sandy Venegas (nee Crampton)
January 13, 2011
Our deepest condolences to the McCarthy-Donaldson family. The Crampton family fondly remembers Peter, Sheila, Mackenzie & Drew and our visits together at Norm's cottage. We're very sorry for your tragic & untimely loss.
Larry Larson
January 13, 2011
Dear Sheila and girls,
I have far too memories of wonderful Peter both on and off the boards. I feel so privileged to have worked with him on many occasions, and to have my butt whooped by him at golf on one! You know that you have a huge, strong, loving community behind you always. Be not afraid to use it!
Lots of love to you all,
Larry Larson
January 12, 2011
Dear Sheila, Mackenzie and Drew – Peter and my former husband, Bill Dunlop, shared a dressing room while they were performing Our Town in 1991 – I think Peter played Dr. Gibbs and Bill was Mr. Webb. Peter was always good-humored, cheerful and so friendly. Billy respected and admired Peter very much.
A few years later Peter was wonderful in King John at Stratford and I feel sad I never gave him my congratulations. We also thought he was just great in Caesar and Cleopatra.
I cannot imagine how difficult it may be for you over the years, but I know that my daughters, Roxanna and Arden, feel their dad’s presence with them always since he passed away last year. They feel sadness and they miss him, and in their hearts they strongly feel his love and support. No doubt you will have your challenges, and may you always feel your loving dad with you.
Sheila, I’m so sorry for your profound loss.
XO, Julia Smith
January 12, 2011
Sheila, from the McLellan family (your backyard neighbours in Thornhill). Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Cherish the memories. Love, Maureen, Val, Vaughan, Jennifer and John
Nancy Blair
January 12, 2011
Just heard of Peter passing, and was so sad to hear this tragic news. I worked at front of house at Stratford for 12 seasons and always looked forward to see his performances, especially as the season was coming to a close, and the little tricks we ushers could see Pete playing on the other actors. My condolences to you Mackie and your Mother and sister.
Nancy Parker
January 12, 2011
Dear Sheila:
I'm so sorry for your loss. I have followed both your & Peter's career over the years. I remember seeing you both in a play in London Ont. in the 1990's which I thought was amazing. I know your strength, warmth & intelligence will get you through this. I will be thinking of you & your family.
Another old friend from Thornlea days,
lisa horner
January 12, 2011
Much much, love to Sheila and family.
xo lisa horner and matthew olver
January 12, 2011
Dear loved ones of Peter's,
My condolences to you for your loss.I was very sad to hear of Peter's passing.We,the girls next door,(#17?)were all good chums with Peter and the boys next door(#16?)in the Peter Robinson College (Trent U. circa 1972-73) townhouse residence.Because there were 2 Peter's in the boys house,your Peter was referred to as "little Peter" and the other Peter, being very tall, became "big Peter".With typical great passion and enthusiasm, in the summer of '73 Peter organized an O.F.Y grant to perform outdoor children's theatre in his home area of Midland-Penetang, and recruited a motley group of P.R. and other enthusiastic friends.Peter found for us an old elegant-in- its earlier -days large cottage in which we all lived (Peter wisely chose to sleep at his family home) and practiced our performances.It was a fun, fulfilling, and at times raucous summer adventure...all because of Peter and his love of theatre.Well maybe he isn't totally responsible for the "raucous" part, but he definitely contributed his fair share!
Does my heart good to know that Peter,as such a fine Canadian actor,achieved success doing what he loved to do, in the midst of a loving family. Good on ya Peter....and thanks for the memories.
May you rest in peace knowing you will not be forgotten.
Paula Jackson, Huntsville Ontario
January 12, 2011
Having the great fortune to live in Stratford we have had seen Peter in many many wonderful roles. Our sincere sympathy to the Donaldson family.
Margaret & Michael Dickson
Pamela Delaney
January 12, 2011
I had utmost admiration for Peter as an actor and gentleman. When we had PostScript Productions, Leon Pownall and I had hoped to work with Peter on a future production. Now Leon and Peter can chat to their heart's content... Warmest thoughts to Sheila and the girls.
January 11, 2011
I am a huge fan of the Stratford Festival and am alway proud to associate Stratford as my home town and was deeply moved by Peter's performance as Atticus in "To Kill A Mockingbird" Before I attended the play, I said to myself Peter has big shoes to fill, following Gregory Peck, and Peter did it!I am still in awe of his performance. He will be greatly missed.
My condolences to the McCarthy-Donaldson family.
Brenda Shepherd Kitchener, Ontario
Chick Reid
January 11, 2011
Dearest Sheila, Mackie and Drew - thoughts are always with you three lovelies and will remember your husband and daddy with laughter,love and light. Lots of love to you all. xoxo
Cheryl & Stephen Young
January 11, 2011
Sheila, Mackenzie and Drew,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of great sorrow.
We enjoyed the priviledge of watching you all act together when we worked on Emily of New Moon. As a family working and playing together, you made a great team. We know that the void Peter leaves behind will not be easily filled again in your lives or in the Canadian theatrical world as well.
Sincerely,
Peggy Dunham
January 11, 2011
I had the great privilege of seeing Peter perform in Timon of Athens. I attended that performance with Victoria Warwick and was spellbound by Peter's ability to draw people to him and make them believe they were part of the action. My sincere sympathies to you all. May happier memories bring you comfort as time goes by.
Kim Hesbon
January 11, 2011
To Sheila and daughters, family and colleagues of Peter, I want to send my deepest condolences on Peter's passing. I don't know any of you personally but I have watched Sheila and Peter on stage and television for many, many years. Peter has always been one of my favourite performers at Stratford and he will be missed by so many. He brought me so much pleasure over the years and I will fondly remember the enjoyment of his wonderful voice and performances. God Bless you all and may you find the strength you need to help you through this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Rinchen Boardman
January 11, 2011
To the family and friends of Peter;
My wife & I have resided in Edinburgh for the past 18 months. Yesterday, our daughter attending Bishops University in Quebec notified us of Peter's death. Our family were members of the Festival for a number of years. We would excitedly choose upcoming season tickets by using a few criteria. One of which was who was playing what character. Peter Donaldson was one of the vital factors in making our choice of plays. We have missed the Festival recently and now we miss him even more.
The very best of thoughts at this time, from Scotland.
Rinchen Boardman
Gayle Wilmot
January 10, 2011
Sheila -- I too, like Linda, have cheered for and admired you since Thornlea days. I am so sorry for the difficult times you have suffered through at Peter's side and for the trying times now and ahead. My thoughts are with you.
Linda (Keegan) Sabine
January 10, 2011
Sheila - I have followed your career, cheering from afar, since Thornlea days, and am heartbroken to hear of your loss. We saw Peter most recently in To Kill a Mockingbird - he did the role proud. Thoughts and prayers to you and your girls.
MARTIN KOSTERMAN
January 10, 2011
I remember him from our days at the University of Guelph. His talent obvious and you new he was going places. Very personable and very approachable. I will keep him in my prayers as well as his family
Katrina Walsh
January 10, 2011
So very sorry to hear of Peter's passing. A wonderful man and outstanding actor. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Jane Wilson
January 10, 2011
My deepest condolences to the McCarthy-Donaldson family. It was such a pleasure to watch Peter work. What a positive contribution he made to Stratford, to the Arts and to life.
Steve Collins
January 10, 2011
I saw him last year in "ART" in Toronto.A great actor,fantastic performance. So sad that he is gone too soon.
Larry Lalonde
January 10, 2011
This is heartbreaking news. I worked with Peter in tv and film. He was always gracious, humble and very funny. As huge a talent as he possessed there was never a hint of ego. He was simply a great actor and a fine man. My sincere condolences.
Susan Davidson
January 10, 2011
I was very privileged to see him on the Stratford stage for many years. I am so sorry to hear of this. My condolences.
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