Peter Wilfrid Chappell
February 9, 2025
Peter Wilfrid Chappell passed away peacefully on February 9th at the age of 77. Born December 15, 1947 in Duncan, BC, Peter leaves behind his much loved partner in life Nancy Pow. He met Nancy atop Grouse Mountain in 1990, and four years later they made a home with each other in North Vancouver where they shared their love and many adventures. He is also survived by his sister Vivian (Tony) Thickett; sister-in-law Jan Pow (Ron Flaterud); brother-in-law Rick Pow (Carole Orr); niece Dawn Moore; and nephews Darren Bradley and Curtis Flaterud.
Born in Duncan, BC, Peter spent eight idyllic years living on waterfront property in Maple Bay, where his enduring love for the ocean and nature began. Later a resident of Vancouver, he graduated from UBC with a BSc in Zoology, followed by a teacher’s certificate. He taught Science and Biology for over 30 years at Killarney Secondary and for four years at Magee. At both schools he passed on to his students his passion for the health of the planet by spearheading active and successful environment clubs.
As a youngster Peter enjoyed glorious hours dog-paddling in Maple Bay. As an adult, his fascination with the ocean grew and he earned his NASDS Professional Scuba Diving Instructor certification. Nothing gave him more pleasure than introducing people to the wonders of cold-water diving.
He was proud of his 200+ blood donations, his captaincy of one of the top fund-raising teams for the 24-Hour Relay for the Kids; and in retirement, obtaining his competition autosport racing licence, which enabled him to race at Mission Raceway, cheered on by some of his fellow car enthusiasts from UBC Sports Car Club days.
Peter will be loved and remembered for his deep friendships; his playful sense of humour; his joy in the present moment; his infectious smile; his skills as a blues harmonica player; and his artistic bent, evident in his graphic design sense, creativity with words, and his many beautiful photographs.
In lieu of flowers, a tribute gift in memory of Peter may be made to Lions Gate Hospital Foundation.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
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Messages of Condolence
An incredible obituary for an amazing uncle. A very fitting tribute for an inspiring human who always strove for the top. You will be missed! Love, Missy, Chuck and family ~ Missy
Dear Nancy, My deepest sympathy embraces you. You were there for Peter in every way as he navigated his deteriorating health. I have so much respect for everything you were able to do to help him feel loved and cared for. I'm so sorry for your loss but know your incredible strength will get you through ~ Alison Alexsnder
Our deepest condolences to you, Nancy and family members. ~ Petra and Royston Jarvis
Dear Nancy - Brian and I send our deepest condolences. That is a beautiful obituary. Peter was clearly deeply loved. Wishing you peace and healing. ~ Dorothy
Nancy: We are heartbroken about Peter's passing. He was such a unique and vibrant soul—his passion for teaching and environmental causes always stood out, even as he joked about the contradiction with his love of autosport racing. Steve and I will always treasure the memory of his spirited harmonica playing with the band; it was impossible not to smile when he played. He brought so much life and joy to every gathering, and he will truly be missed. Please know we’re here for you, Nancy, in whatever way you need during this difficult time. With love and heartfelt sympathy, Tracey and Steve ~ Tracey and Steve Wimperly
My deepest sympathy, Nancy, in the loss of your beloved Peter. His obituary tells the story of someone who lived life to the fullest and loved his life with you, and you with him. I hope your memories of your life together will bring you comfort. ~ Elise Roaf
Words cannot express the sadness we feel for your loss Nancy. Peter was a wonderful man, an honest and loyal friend, and we'll always treasure the moments of joy, laughter and love we shared over many, many years. We will remember Peter with much love and admiration. Deane and Margaret ~ Margaret and Deane McConnell
Nancy, I am so sorry to hear about Peter. My thoughts are with you at this time. I will always be grateful for the ray of Sunshine you both seem to bring to my life each time we were together, thank you. Sending love along with a huge hug ~ Carol
Dear Nancy, My heartfelt thanks to you for your complete devotion to my brother, especially during these last few years. Peter was so fortunate to have you in his life. Love to you for always, Viv ~ Vivian Thickett
Dear Nancy. How fortunate we are to have known Peter and spent time with you both during your trip to Australia and later on in your gorgeous home in Vancouver. No doubt your TLC extended his life considerably. We send our deepest sympathy and love. Perhaps your music & orchestral activities will help you through the next year especially, & thereafter. And you both seem to have a wonderful group of family & friends. It will not be easy. Love Linda and Grahame ~ Linda & Grahame Clarke
Nancy, so sorry to hear of the loss of your partner, Peter. Deepest sympathies and sincerest condolences to you and your loved ones. ~ Diane Williams
Dear Nancy. Sincere condolences to you with the loss of Peter. He made everyone smile with his impish grin and he will always be in the hearts of all who knew him. ~ Lainie
Dear Nancy, Sending my heartfelt condolences for your loss. Peter was such a special friend to my parents, and together you four shared many wonderful times. My folks often reminisce about cycling adventures, road trips, walks, talks, and lots of good laughs with Peter and yourself. The memories of those times will always be cherished. Thinking of you during this difficult time. ~ Melanie
Dear Nancy Losing Peter is so sad. I will always cherish the sixty or so years of fun and (often ridiculous) adventures with him. He was a wonderful and talented friend with a sparkling sense of humour, just a great guy to be with . . . no matter the occasion. Of course his greatest blessing was finding you and I know he treasured the relationship you both had. Sincere condolences to you Nancy at this sad time. Much love, Jock & Kitty ~ Jock Hobson
Oh so sad to hear this news. ~ Yehudi Altman
What a beautiful tribute- he sounds like a lovely and amazing person. So sorry for your profound loss, Nancy. ~ Christie Reside