Peter Van Geel of Lucan, at the age of 75, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family on Friday, May 27, 2022. Pete endured a short battle with pancreatic cancer. Just as he dealt with all experiences in life, he managed his illness with immense strength, grace, and bravery. His loving family walked with him every step of the way. He was a kind, loving partner to Patricia MacDonald, father-like figure and dear friend to her two children, Vicki Billings (Steve) and their children Shelby, and Kevin, and Dennis MacDonald. He will be pawsitively missed by his loyal four legged buddy, Carson. One of Pete’s proudest accomplishments in life was being a father to his three girls, Teresa Schirru (Antonio), Tina Van Eldik (David), and Rebecca Wallace (Owen). Pete was always there for his girls through their ups and downs and always taught them to enjoy every moment life has to offer. His girls couldn’t be more proud to be able to call him ”dad”. Pete held great honour and felt blessed to be called grandpa by his six grandchildren, Sonya, Eve; Ava, Maryn; Isaiah, and Lyla. He took pride and joy in attending their sports games, music concerts, horse back riding lessons, and anything else they were involved in.
Dear brother and brother-in-law of Catherine Van Bussel, Frank and Bridgette Van Geel, Andy Van Geel and Gloria Hodgins, Walda and Gary Barker all of Lucan, John Van Geel and Joe Eagleson of Poplar Hill, Nancy and Bob Flanigan of Ilderton, Mary and Harold McAdam of Allenford, Jack Van Geel of Forest, Keith Van Geel of Ingersoll, Lois Van Geel of London, and Mary Van Geel of Lucan. Fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews and the Rummell and MacDonald families. Predeceased by his sweet heart and first love, Joyce (Rummell) Van Geel (1998), his parents, Catherine (Van Delar) and Jac Van Geel, his step mother Quirna (De Koning) Van Geel, brothers Carl, and George Van Geel, and brother-in-law Chris Van Bussel.
Pete made his mark and set a legacy with his excavating business PVG Excavating throughout the city of London and surrounding area. He made many friends and established many solid business relationships over the years. He was well known and respected in his industry. He was the most kind and generous man to anyone he encountered. He shared his knowledge and wisdom and often a whiskey with those he spent time with.
Pete’s most desirable hobby was fishing, he was never short of a tale to tell about how big his catch was each time he was out on the water. Each year, he looked forward to his fishing trip with his buddies in Mindemoya (Manitoulin Island). Abundant memories were made at the island on Onaping Lake with friends but especially his family. Pete was a dedicated volunteer firefighter with Lucan Biddulph for over 20 years and an active member of the community his whole life.
A celebration of Pete’s life will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, 223 Main Street, LUCAN on Saturday, June 18th from 1 – 3 PM. Please join the family in honouring a life well lived. Cremation has taken place. Private family interment St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery, Lucan.
Donations to Lucan Community Memorial Centre Renovation Project (cheques payable to Township of Lucan Biddulph – Renovation) or the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family.
Offer Condolence for the family of VAN GEEL: Petrus “Peter” Antonius Maria of Lucan
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of VAN GEEL Petrus “Peter Antonius Maria of Lucan 2022..
Death notice for the town of: Lucan, Province: Ontario