Obituary
Roy Appleton
With much sadness, we announce that Roy passed away at the age of 79 on December 20, 2021 surrounded by family at St Joseph’s at Fleming in Peterborough. This is after a decade-long journey with Alzheimer’s disease.
Roy was born in East York to Francis (Garrett) and Walter Appleton. He will be greatly missed by his wife Shelly (Huestis) of 51 years, and daughters Vicki (Pedro) and Kelly, and grandchildren Lucie, Piper, and Holly.
“Roysey” affectionately referred to Shelly as “his bride”, and they loved to travel. Given his terrible sense of direction, he always managed to see more of his destination than planned.
An avid golfer, Roy spent many years on the links at Peterborough Golf and Country Club, and even caddied for Vicki for a short time during her amateur years. His position was quickly terminated due to conflicts in strategy. After being fired from his duties, good friend Mark Tindale assumed the role, which brought Roy great confidence and relief. At PGCC he also made long term friends with whom he liked to travel, including the PATT group.
Kelly, an artistic talent, spent time with Roy with a sketchbook in hand. Many a character was created during those sessions. Kelly didn’t ever fire her dad from this endeavour!
Roy’s true loves were his granddaughters. Although Covid made visits a challenge, his eyes would smile when presented with photos and videos of Lucie, Piper and Holly. They will carry on his legacy with their senses of humour and sparkling blue eyes.
Many of Roy’s 35 years of teaching were spent at Adam Scott. He made an impact on many, including fellow teacher Burney Skitch. While Roy provided tomfoolery, Burney brought skill. A handyman…Roy was not. He relied on Burney to help with projects around the house, and every accomplishment became a revelation.
As a big burly man, some found him intimidating until he flashed his big welcoming smile. Not one for crowds, Roy was known to make friends with random strangers at shops, restaurants, and lineups.
After waiting more than 50 years, Roy got tired of waiting for the Leafs to win the cup. “It is what it is”, he’d say.
Though he’s been ‘gone’ a long time, we remember the man he once was. As Dr. Seuss once said, “don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened”. His was a life well lived.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In memory of Roy, donations can be made to St. Joseph’s at Fleming, the Alzheimer’s Society of Peterborough, or a charity of choice.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Roy Walter Appleton December 15 1942 December 20 2021 (age 79)..
Death notice for the town of: Peterborough, Province: Ontario