Peter Wilfrid Chappell passed away peacefully on February 9th at the age of 77. Born December 15, 1947 in Duncan, BC, Peter leaves behind his much loved partner in life Nancy Pow. He met Nancy atop Grouse Mountain in 1990, and four years later they made a home with each other in North Vancouver where they shared their love and many adventures. He is also survived by his sister Vivian (Tony) Thickett; sister-in-law Jan Pow (Ron Flaterud); brother-in-law Rick Pow (Carole Orr); niece Dawn Moore; and nephews Darren Bradley and Curtis Flaterud.

Born in Duncan, BC, Peter spent eight idyllic years living on waterfront property in Maple Bay, where his enduring love for the ocean and nature began. Later a resident of Vancouver, he graduated from UBC with a BSc in Zoology, followed by a teacher’s certificate. He taught Science and Biology for over 30 years at Killarney Secondary and for four years at Magee. At both schools he passed on to his students his passion for the health of the planet by spearheading active and successful environment clubs.

As a youngster Peter enjoyed glorious hours dog-paddling in Maple Bay. As an adult, his fascination with the ocean grew and he earned his NASDS Professional Scuba Diving Instructor certification. Nothing gave him more pleasure than introducing people to the wonders of cold-water diving.

He was proud of his 200+ blood donations, his captaincy of one of the top fund-raising teams for the 24-Hour Relay for the Kids; and in retirement, obtaining his competition autosport racing licence, which enabled him to race at Mission Raceway, cheered on by some of his fellow car enthusiasts from UBC Sports Car Club days.

Peter will be loved and remembered for his deep friendships; his playful sense of humour; his joy in the present moment; his infectious smile; his skills as a blues harmonica player; and his artistic bent, evident in his graphic design sense, creativity with words, and his many beautiful photographs.

In lieu of flowers, a tribute gift in memory of Peter may be made to Lions Gate Hospital Foundation.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.