Peter Smale

Peter Smale

Peter passed away on Thursday, July 16, 2020 at the age of 79.

He was a longtime resident of Craiglee Nursing home and had been in declining health for some time. The COVID-19 virus restrictions meant that he had to rely on staff for all the help he needed. The individuals worked valiantly to help him as the system strained. Over Skype we could see staff giving him extra time, especially towards the end. Peter was a teacher at heart and he encouraged the staff to stay strong and know that things would get better.

Outspoken and smart like his mother and hardworking and productive like his father he weathered many health challenges and impressed most with his drive. His physiotherapists had to tell him to do less, not more.

Home schooled due to his health, he found his niche at university and completed a PhD in 1971 (“Don’t call me doctor.”). He taught for ten years until his health forced him to move into student counselling where he enjoyed helping many young international students do well at Acadia University. He was an amateur radio enthusiast and counted his friends in that community among his best. He would have gladly given it all up to be a radio DJ but that remained a happy dream.

He loved living in small town Nova Scotia and defended his beloved “Valley” above all else.

He excelled at woodworking and photography and he loved classic cars.

His friends are scattered around the globe so he wanted no service. He did not have one specific charity but he will be remembering hospitals he received help from over the years. He also supported MSF (Doctors Without Borders) and the two major schools in his life: Acadia and Waterloo.

Offer Condolence for the family of Peter Smale