Obituary of Peter Gale Bourne

On February 10, Kitty Dooly (wife), Amy (daughter), Christopher (son) and Julie Blais (daughter-in-law) lost a husband, father, & dearly beloved friend. Although it was sudden, he was not alone as Amy was with him. Peter also leaves behind his brother Brian Bourne, sisters Sheila Dunn and Vicky Merrick, and their families, as well as numerous cousins and their families.

Born in Toronto to Gwynneth and “Pep" Bourne, Peter grew up in Thetford Mines, Quebec. His father was a mining engineer who worked for Asbestos Corporation. Despite the linguistic and class tensions of that time, Peter's father taught him the importance of treating everyone with decency and respect, regardless of background, values Peter carried with him throughout his life.

Small-town life didn't suit Peter's ambitions at the time, and he ended up in Montreal where he was drawn by the academic life through Sir George Williams University (now known as Concordia): moreover, he encountered two of the great loves of his life: music and his soon-to-be wife Kitty. The pair enjoyed married life in Montreal, then Toronto, before moving to Fredericton. Peter’s working life began in Montreal, at International Music, where he was able to indulge in his passion for music. With their move to Toronto, and a change of work, he expanded another interest, reading, by working at International News & Books. When they moved to Fredericton to enjoy a more simple life, he joined the New Brunswick Civil Service, moving through various roles over a nearly 40 year career, primarily with the Departments of Education, and Agriculture & Aquaculture where he was able to use his Degree in Geography. He also adored his two major passions: Chris who was born shortly after their arrival and Amy a few years later

While he enjoyed his career, his true passion lay in the arts: film, television, but particularly music. For many years, he worked with the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra as administrator and manager, devoting innumerable hours to helping youth learn the joys of live music performance. He also listened with great attention to recorded music, and was known for his expertise in audio equipment and an eclectic mix of artists. He published several in-depth reviews of albums by the band Procul Harum. He was a great supporter of his family's artistic and academic endeavours, and was always excited to discuss new ideas and projects. Also devoted to his pets, Peter enjoyed the company of many animal companions over the years. Rosie Beagle and Tabitha Twitchet the tortoiseshell cat will continue to comfort his family in his absence. 

He was a deeply caring man and his family and friends will miss him dearly.

In late spring or early summer when the sun is warm and the trees are green, there will be a gathering of friends and family to celebrate Peter's life. In the meantime take a moment to think of him, and "... fill to me the parting glass / And drink a health whate'er befalls / Then gently rise and softly call / Goodnight and joy be to you”.

If you so wish, a donation in memory of Peter may be made to a charity of your choice, or to Peter’s favourite: Beagle Paws Rescue, P.O. Box 28164, St. John’s NL A1B 4J8 (by cheque through mail or through their website).