Obituary of Peter Wayne Wilson

Peter Wayne Wilson eulogy delivered at his funeral service at Westminster Cathedral, London, UK on Monday, December 15th, 2025

Exceptional and complex in every way, his brilliant mind was always questioning - challenging others to think broader and deeper. His keen sense of justice, vision and world view ruffled more than a few corporate and individual feathers - and he was legitimately proud of his ‘rebel’ side. All his life he refused to be cowed by what he perceived as prejudice or injustice - nor did he suffer fools gladly. Yet, despite an abrasive impatience at times, he was tremendously patient, kind, gentle, unselfish and protective to those in genuine need or crisis. He worked closely with people dying of AIDS in Alberta who could not get the drugs, housing or social support they needed. Fiercely loyal to those he cared about, his harshest critic was always himself.
A highly successful mediator in labour and family relations law, college teacher, lecturer, manager, sociologist, historian, poet, researcher, critic, investor, consultant, adviser, gentleman - these were all titles he wore effortlessly at various times in his life - yet the title ‘friend’ was probably the one he prized the most. Although he could be comfortable at Wilton’s or at Wetherspoon’s - he had an uncanny ability to put others at ease in even the most formal situations while remaining dignified - and frequently somewhat aloof to those with whom he was not close.
Fluent in French, and with a high level of German and Latin and some Spanish and Iroquois, he was always insistent that the young learn at least two languages - if the world was ever to overcome intolerance. He knew that one could not really learn a language without learning different cultures and attitudes as well.
Born in the Ottawa area he was the beloved eldest son of the late Phineas Ralph Wilson and the late Henrietta Mae McGregor, kind and loving parents whom he adored. His famous Robbie Burns parties every twenty-fifth of January will be remembered fondly by many and he started these in 1985 in memory of his mother.
Beloved grandson of the late Rev Joseph Enoch Wilson and Sarah Elfreda Leach, William Henry McGregor and Margaret Henrietta Castle - he honoured their memories all his life, their portraits hanging proudly in his parlour. He had masses said annually for his dear Mary Gertrude Hudson Murphy. An incredibly kind and giving person - who remembered ancient kindnesses as if they occurred yesterday. Elder brother of David McGregor Wilson, uncle to Jeff, Scott and Ann Marie Mae.
Educated at the universities of Carelton (Ottawa) and Queen’s (Kingston) he had made London his home since 2006 but never lost his fondness for Ottawa and Montreal. A deeply spiritual and private person, he was a devout Catholic who gave many tours of Westminster Cathedral as a volunteer.

As per Peter's wishes his remains were repatriated from the United Kingdom to Smiths Falls. All were welcome to attend his graveside service on Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at Hillcrest Cemetery, 3540 Highway 43 at 12 noon. Peter's service was officiated by Father Jacob Chelamootil, Parish Priest at St. Francis de Sales Roman Catholic Church, Smiths Falls. For those unable to attend the service in person, please find below a recording of the event. Arrangements in the care of Blair & Son Funeral Directors, Smiths Falls.