Peter William Grantham
Peter died peacefully in his 92nd year, after a short illness, at Extendicare Nursing Home in London, Ontario.
Loving husband of Mary Evans for 21 years and of Frances Berry (1980). Father of Timothy (Cate Breaugh), Simon, Rachel and Michael. Grandfather of Alexander, Grace, and Ryan; step-father of Paul (Lisa), Rae, Susan, and Geoffrey (Maria); and step-grandfather of Jonathan, Jacqueline, Alexandra, and Natasha. Peter was the son of the late William Peter Grantham and Marjory Nora Perry; brother of Heather Selway and the late Thelma Davis.
Born in Wembley, England, Peter studied to become a physiotherapist, and worked for several years before emigrating to Canada in 1957 with wife Frances and their two small boys, to serve as a physiotherapist at Lethbridge, Alberta's Municipal Hospital. In 1968. Peter studied at the University of Toronto to qualify as a teacher of physiotherapy. After graduation, the family moved London, Ontario, where he began his second career as a lecturer at Western University's School of Physical Therapy eventually to become Assistant Professor. After retiring from Western, Peter started the London Physio-Therapy Clinic and continued to teach anatomy to D’Arcy Lane Students and to seniors at the Kiwanis Centre.
Peter enjoyed writing poetry, and his novel. He had a life-long love affair with live performance, acting, singing, and dancing in feature roles in numerous plays and musicals. He acted in the Palace Theater, was a member of the Nostalgia Theatre and the Horton Street Choir He also entertained at different locations such as nursing and retirement homes. Peter was a dedicated member of Holy Trinity St. Stephens Memorial Anglican Church. Always active Peter played tennis into his 80’s with Huff and Puff and golf with Moe. He and Mary enjoyed camping and did so across Canada in their modified dodge caravan.
Peter was a lifelong harness racing enthusiast along with his friends Rod Singh, Keith and Fred.
The family would like express their appreciation to Extendicare, Dr. Chawla, Nurses, PSWs and Staff, because without them life would not have been so tolerable the last 5 years.
Memorial donations to London Community Chaplaincy, 977 Southdale Road E., London on N6E 1B3 or the London Food Bank are appreciated and may be made directly, or by cheque through Wareing Cremation Services, 225 Norwich Ave., Woodstock, Ontario N4S 3V8 (519-290-5575). Messages of condolence may be shared at www.wareingcremation.ca
A celebration of Peter’s life will take place, by invitation only, at Holy Trinity St. Stephens Memorial Anglican Church.
A private family inurnment will take place later at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, London.
I was saddened to hear of Peter’s passing. He was a teacher of mine in 1987-88 at Darcy Lane. He brought anatomy alive for me. Peter was one of our most respected teachers, shared his wonderful wit with us, was patient with each of us, and did his very best to help us all learn the subject. I became a teacher of massage therapy myself and often reflected back over my own career to Peter’s passion, patience and persistence as a teacher. I’m honored to have known him, if even for a rather short time all those years ago.
We met Peter when he first came to H.T.S.S.M. church with Mary, his beautiful singing voice drew attention to him immediately. We became friends, through the years we enjoyed many fond memories, with many stories told and evenings of laughter. With Love and Blessings to a friend who made a difference with his outreach and talents… Miriam & Rob xo
My thoughts and prayers for all the family and friends of Peter. He always made me laugh.
I had the pleasure of working on stage with Peter – he was Canon Chasuble to my Miss Prism at the old Gallery Theatre in London, Ontario – and we had fun – even taking the show on the road to Galt as part of the WODL Festival. I also worked on other shows with him where I was crew – notably, “Aunt Edwina” – which was a hoot. Our sincere condolences to the family – it was a pleasure to know you, Peter. Sue and Dave Perkins
Peter was born to be a teacher. Thoroughly enjoyed learning form such a passionate man. Anatomy class was always an adventure. He will be remembered fondly My condolences
So sorry to read of Peters passing.Many happy memories of time spent with Peter and Francis and later Peter and Mary.Time spent with Peter playing tennis and golf at Thames Valley golf course.Our condolences to you all.
Dear Mary and family. I am so saddened to learn of Peter’s passing. What wonderful, generous gentleman he was! How we looked forward to he and Mary’s visits at the Kiwanis Seniors Centre. Always a smile and a joke to tell. He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him. Linda Bakker, Formerly of the Council for London Seniors
Mary & family – our most sincere sympathies in Peter’s passing. May loving memories sustain you at this sad time. Sincerely, Barb & John Farr
Mary, we are sorry for your loss. We feel blessed to have been able to count Peter amongst our friends and neighbours and shall always fondly remember the fun he added to our neighbourhood gatherings. Sending you a big hug. Peggy and Tom
Mary: Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time. We rally enjoyed the time that we spent with you and Peter. He was such a wonderful man. We enjoyed playing tennis and cards with the two of you. We can still hear his wonderful voice. Rest in peace Peter