Peter Albert Dueck

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Peter Albert Dueck on February 19, 2015. He was predeceased by Helen, his beloved wife of 62 years, and survived by his four children, Ed (Carole), Gerald (Anne), Larraine (Mark) Kandal, Leonard (Pamela) and nine grandchildren, Jennie, Melanie, Stefanie, Brittanie (Perry) Thiessen, Cameron, Alissa, David, Taylor and Landon and one great grandchild, Silas Thiessen.

Peter was born on July 5, 1923 in Orenburg, U.S.S.R. At three years of age, he immigrated to Canada with his parents and two sisters. They settled in Coaldale, Alberta, where Peter grew up on the family farm.

At age eighteen, Peter moved to British Columbia in search of opportunities to take advantage of his tremendous initiative and capacity for hard work. This was interrupted by a brief return to Coaldale motivated by his desire to marry Helen, whom he first met in grade two. She accepted his proposal, and they married on November 16, 1946.

The happy couple established a home in Abbotsford, B.C., where they raised their children. The Dueck home soon became the focal point for social gatherings attended by family and friends. People were drawn to Peter’s friendly, outgoing and jovial nature. Together, with Helen’s kindness and tireless hospitality, they made a great team.

Peter began his business career in 1951 as co-founder of MSA Motors in Abbotsford. Over the years, he established other car dealerships and later, after having worked as a real estate salesman for a time, purchased and operated a successful real estate and insurance agency.

Always looking for new challenges, Peter began his political career in 1978, serving as an alderman and deputy mayor for the Municipality of Matsqui. He turned to provincial politics in October 1986, when he was elected to the B.C. Legislature. During his seven years in the provincial government, Peter held cabinet posts in more than one portfolio, including the Ministry of Health. In government as in business, Peter earned a reputation for integrity and competence.

Throughout his working life, Peter was involved in community service, serving on boards and committees too numerous to mention.

Peter and Helen enjoyed leisure time together. They snow skied, played tennis and loved ballroom dancing. They also put a lot of effort into creating beautiful gardens, winning six gardening awards sponsored by the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board.

In spite of his busy schedule, Peter was a devoted husband and father who always had time for his family. He cherished Helen and provided an excellent role model for his children. As for his grandchildren, they will have many happy memories of a warm and playful grandfather.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to Dad’s long time physician Dr. David Froese, the staff at Fraser Health Kidney Care Centre for their dedication, understanding and support (special thanks to Bobbi) and the staff at “Nurse Next Door” for their kindness, patience and professionalism in caring for Dad.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Kidney Foundation of Canada, www.kidney.ca

Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 pm, Wednesday, March 4, 2015 at Central Heights Church, Abbotsford. Online condolences to the family may be made at www.woodlawnfh-abbotsford.com .

Arrangements under the direction of Woodlawn Funeral Home, Abbotsford, BC.