Obituary of Peter Neufeld

Clarence Peter Neufeld passed away peacefully in his 84^th year on March 12 surrounded by the family he loved so dearly.

The ninth of ten children, Peter grew up on a small fruit farm in Niagara-on-the-Lake, internalizing values that poverty, hard work and membership in a large family engendered. He lived purposefully and joyfully with a great love for people and an intense curiosity about the world. His gift for story-telling and infectious laugh endeared him to many. 

Peter thrived in a 34-year career as teacher and school principal and later as a supervisor of student teachers. His love of history and need for an audience led to enjoyable and successful roles as tour operator and bed and breakfast proprietor. He enjoyed choral singing and directing throughout his life and was a proud and dedicated member of the Niagara Men’s Chorus. 

In 1958 he married the love of his life Laura Klassen. They built a life-time of memories together travelling often with family and friends.

Peter was predeceased by his parents Henry and Annie, sisters Nettie Guenther, Betty Neufeld, Ann Derksen and brothers Henry, John and Gilbert.  Surviving him are brothers Cornelius (Helen) and Herman (Kathy) and sister Lena Loewen (Henry), wife Laura, children Les (Lori Willms), Darrell (Andrea Lawson) and Marla (Rob Gerbrandt) grandchildren, Carianne (Paul Peters), Jonathan, Tracey (Austin Huber), Emily, Andrea, Chantal and Jesse and great-grandchildren Simon and Miles.

Peter enjoyed life to the fullest.  His initial poverty gave him a deep appreciation for what he could enjoy in the present age.  He remained forever grateful for the sacrifices made by his parents in coming to Canada and instilling in him a desire to be a contributing member to the larger society. He will be sorely missed.

Private funeral will be held March 19 at 11 a.m. All are invited to attend virtually at http://www.granthamchurch.ca/neufeld.html

In lieu of visitation, the family invites friends to share stories and memories of Peter by sending to darrellneufeld62@gmail.com.