Peter Elias
April 19, 1950 – January 21, 2022
Peter Elias of Shelburne residency at Dufferin Oaks passed away peacefully on the morning of January 21st, 2022 at the age of 71.
Peter was born on April 19th, 1950 in Cardiff, Wales, to parents James Thomas Elias and Patricia May (nee Edwards). Along with elder sister Christine, the Elias family came to Canada by boat in the late 1950’s, together with his uncle George Berman, aunt Mona (nee Elias), and cousins Robert and Ann.
They landed in Ontario and shortly after settling in Aurora, they welcomed a second son and little brother Anthony (Tony).
Upon attending universities in both Ottawa and Guelph, he met and married Brenda (nee Pew). Together they raised three sons, Mark, Adam, and Simon, living primarily in the Caledon area.
As an avid athlete Peter participated in just about every sport, but his favourites were hockey and softball.
When he was diagnosed with Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis in his mid-thirties, Peter knew that he had to face the hereditary illness that had been in the family for generations. Having watched this incurable condition claim the life of his father at the age of 42, he chose to battle hard through more than three decades of rapid health deterioration. But at any point if you were to ask him how he was doing, he would respond with a smile on his face telling you he was “really good!”
There was no circumstance in which you would see him lose his optimism. No condition could bring down his gentle and pleasant disposition – except maybe the playoff performances of the Toronto Maple Leafs over the years (and that was only when they made it).
He never let you pay for anything. Even when he had nothing, he wanted to be the one to provide for you. His generosity knew no end.
When most would have simply given up, Peter fought to remain with the ones he loved. After losing his ability to walk, he fought to attend the wedding of his eldest son and deliver his speech standing at the podium. After his health declined to the point of requiring personal support workers and eventually long-term care, he fought to claim the title of “grandfather” first to Noah, and then 4 more times to Jonah, Georgia, Rebecca, and Moriah. His days were filled with joy when going for walks around Shelburne with family, eating at the local Chinese restaurant in town, playing games of cribbage with friends or letting his grandchildren wheel him down to the park just outside of Dufferin Oaks to take in some sunshine and laughter.
He will be missed greatly by everyone who knew him and even more so by the friends and family who love him dearly.
The family wishes to extend their appreciation to the staff at Dufferin Oaks for their care for Peter during his final years.
A celebration of Peter’s life will take place in the spring. Further details to follow.
Read Less
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Peter Elias Friday January 21st 2022..
Death notice for the town of: SHELBURNE, Province: Ontario