Obituary of Peter Jeffrey Nelson

NELSON, Peter Jeffrey

Peacefully at the Perth & Smith Falls District Hospital, Perth Site, on Tuesday July 21st, 2026, in his 86th year. Predeceased by his parents Evelyn May (nee Jeffries) and Reginald E. Nelson, and by his sister Patricia Anne. Beloved husband of L. Ruth (nee Dempsey) of Perth, Ontario. He will be deeply missed by his sons, Jeffrey G. Nelson and Andrew J. Nelson, as well as his three grandsons, Caleb, Frederic, and Oscar, all of Eastern Ontario.

Growing up in Toronto, Peter was highly active at St. Clair United Church. After graduating from high school, he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Toronto, followed by a Masters degree in Biomedical Engineering from the University of New Brunswick.

The majority of Peter’s career was with the federal government, first with the National Research Council, and then with the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council.

Music was a major force in Peter’s life. He played the clarinet throughout high school and university, and was active in several bands. It was through music that he met Ruth, his wife of 60 years, while at the University of Toronto. Peter loved camping, hiking, canoeing, skiing, gardening, and simply being outdoors.

Upon retirement, Peter focused his time on environmental issues. He cared passionately about leaving a healthy world for his grandchildren and beyond. Peter’s greatest wish was for a better planet for all to inhabit peacefully.

“Honor the natural world on which all Life depends” – Peter Nelson

The family would like to thank the incredible staff at the Perth & Smith Falls District Hospital for their kindness and support.

Friends are invited to join the family for a celebration of Peter’s life at the Blair & Son Funeral Home, 15 Gore St. W. Perth, on Wednesday, September 2nd, 2026 from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. In honour of him, memorial contributions to the Perth & Smiths Falls District Hospital Foundation – Perth Site would be greatly appreciated.