Peter John Booker

It is with profound sadness the family announces the passing of Peter John Booker, who peacefully left us on March 8, 2024, in his 69th year, after a struggle with dementia, at Wentworth Lodge in Dundas.

Peter is survived by his beloved spouse, Shelley Merlo; devoted daughter, Kirby Booker, and her mother Janice; loving sister and best friend, Linda Carson, and her husband Bill Carson; his cherished nephew, Jeff Carson, as well as his beloved cousins. He was predeceased by his father, David Edward Booker, and mother, Betty Booker.

Peter started working for the Town of Dundas, later the City of Hamilton in 1974, embarking on a remarkable journey of service and dedication. His various positions included Gardener, Foreman, General Foreman, Superintendent of Floriculture and Specials Events Liaison, and Manager of Parks. Over the years, Peter, affectionately known as “the behind-the-scenes guy”, was hands-on with the logistics of countless events, ranging from neighbourhood gatherings to world visitations by dignitaries such as President Clinton, Queen Elizabeth, and Patriarch Bartholomew, as well as major events like 2003 World Road Cycling Championships and Grey Cups.

In 2003, Peter assumed the role of Director of Horticulture, Facilities, and Fleet for the Royal Botanical Gardens. He was a longstanding friend of Festivals & Events Ontario, serving as a judge for the Achievement Award for 17 years. As an event organizer himself, Peter was instrumental in coordinating the City of Hamilton's annual Chrysanthemum Show, a project that earned him one of his greatest honours, an FEO Award.

Peter took great pride in his involvement with Mohawk College, where he served on the advisor board and was a past faculty member in Continuing Education, specializing in Event Management Logistics. He was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award from Tourism Hamilton, a testament to his lasting impact on the community he served with passion and dedication.

Peter's life has been a testament to love, growth, and the beauty he cultivated. His memory will forever be cherished by those who knew him.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 12th at Marlatt Funeral Home “Swackhamer Chapel”, located at 195 King Street West in Dundas, ON, from 2-4 pm and 7-9pm. The funeral service will be held in the Marlatt Dundas Chapel the following day, Wednesday, March 13th, 2024, starting at 11 am. A private family burial will follow. A reception will be held at the Collins Brewhouse, 33 King Street West, Dundas, following the service, at approximately 1pm. The family will meet friends there following the private burial.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Good Shepherd, Red Cross, or Alzheimer Society, in memory of Pete.