Obituary of Peteris "Peter" Maris Mikelsons

It is with deepest sadness that we announce the passing of Peteris “Peter” Maris Mikelsons. A loving father to Larisa (Jason) and Amanda, and a cherished grandfather to Kaitlyn, Luke and Christopher, Peter was a man who loved his family very much. He was also a dear brother to his twin sister Kristine (Jimmie, deceased) and cousin to Agnar, Signe (deceased), Janis, Mara (deceased), Gundar (deceased) and Vidvud and uncle to Tim, Karen and Mara. He was predeceased by his parents, Velta and Sigurds, and his brother Valdis.

 

Peter was married for 22 years to Linda Berzins, with whom he remained connected through their shared family, and spent his last mobile Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrating all together. He was also recently discovered father to Gerry (Mary) and grandfather to Marcus.

 

Peter was born in Germany but spent his early years in St. John’s, Newfoundland, and grew up in Montreal. He attended McGill University, where he followed in his father’s footsteps and studied civil engineering. He worked for Dominion Bridge, SNC-Lavalin and spent the latter part of his career at Industry Canada. He loved traveling and visited numerous countries, including China and his ancestral homeland Latvia. He had a passion for sports such as skiing and bicycling. In his younger years, he played competitive volleyball on the second best team in the country. Peter also enjoyed photography, barbecuing, camping and spending time in the pool with his family. He was a member of Toastmasters and loved to practice his French whenever given the opportunity. He had a great sense of humor, loved to joke around, and was incredibly social—a true social butterfly who loved to talk with anyone and everyone.

 

Peter's faith was a cornerstone of his life, providing him with immense strength and guiding his generous spirit. He gave selflessly to numerous charities, embodying his compassionate and giving nature.

 

Peter passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 77, after a courageous battle with ALS. His legacy of kindness, strength and generosity will live on through his family and all those who were privileged to know him. We thank the staff of Hazeldean Gardens and Carlingview Manor LTC for taking care of him at the end of his journey. After his passing, many staff members shared with us how much they will miss him and how “it seems that the good ones always go early”.

 

If anyone wishes to make a donation in Peter’s memory, the family suggests the ALS Society of Canada (https://als.ca/).

 

May Peter be at peace, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.

 

The family will be holding an intimate Celebration of Life in the spring. There is a Tribute page on this website where anyone can share a message or story.