BIRNIE, Peter
Peter Robert Birnie It is with great sadness that the family announces the sudden passing of Peter Birnie, age 65, after a brief illness on Tuesday, July 15, 2014. He will be sadly missed by his loving partner, Lynda Taylor, beloved sons Jordan and Jeremy, daughter-in-law Sarah, and precious granddaughter, Olivia, and Jordan and Jeremy's mother, Lynne Birnie; Lynda's sons Bill (Gail) and Jason (Stacey) and their boys Aidan and Preston; Peter's brothers Arnold (Janet), Gordon (Carolyn), Douglas, Robert (Helena); sisters Vurla (Shelly) and Kathryn (John) and families; and the Spencer family. Peter was predeceased by his beloved brother, John in 2007, and his late parents Pat and Hope Birnie. Peter was a tireless advocate and supporter of his community. During the past 12 years, he lead Wabi Iron & Steel Corp through some challenging times with the typical vigor and energy that he brought to all endeavours. During his career, Peter worked tirelessly in provincial and federal politics, in his community on several boards and associations, and was particularly dedicated to improving provincial mental health policies during the late 1990's. Peter was appreciated by everyone in his life as a strong leader and mentor. He helped to coach many people in their education and careers, including particularly his son Jeremy in the past 8 years. A graduate of Queen's University, Peter was a Chartered Accountant. For the past 12 years, he was President and Owner of Wabi Iron & Steel Corp in New Liskeard. Peter grew up across the tracks from Wabi in the 1950's, where his family lived a hardworking life in a 4 bedroom house with 8 children. After much work, he ended up owning the Company across the tracks from his childhood home. Peter loved spending time at his cottage on Lake Temagami where his family played and enjoyed many summers. We all have many great memories of time spent with Peter on the lake. In recent years, he moved out to Twin Lakes and enjoyed gardening, boating, and spending time with friends and particularly Lynda. In recent months with the birth of his cherished granddaughter, Olivia, Peter discovered a new found joy of family focus in his life. For those closest to him, Peter is known as a mentor with a big heart who cared deeply for his family and the community of New Liskeard where he was born and spent much of his life. Visitation will be held at Perrin Funeral Chapel, New Liskeard on Friday, July 18th from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Funeral will be held at St. Paul's United Church in New Liskeard on Saturday, July 19th at 1 p.m For those who wish, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canadian Mental Health Association.
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