HORSFORD, Peter

of Sault Ste. Marie died suddenly on Wednesday, September 13, 2017, surrounded by his family. He lived his life fully and passionately, right to his last day. Peter leaves his beloved wife, Mickey nee Sharon McDermott, who was the love of his life and his best friend; his son Doug and his wife Kate of Dunsborough, Australia; his daughter Paula and her husband John Pert of Ottawa.  He also leaves his sister Nancy and her husband Doug Craig of Sudbury; his brother Greg and his wife Rebecca; and his brother Mark and his partner Lesley Higgins of Erin, ON.  He is also survived by his four precious grandchildren, Molly, Ellen, Luke and Ava, who brought him so much joy.  His grandchildren held a special place in his heart and they will miss their funny and loving Papa (Pha Pha).  He also leaves several nieces and nephews who meant so much to him. Peter was blessed to have many good friends.  He loved to laugh and tell stories and touched so many people through his profession and friendships.  Peter grew up in a loving home with Bertha and Henry and his sister and two brothers.  There was so much love in their home on Pim Street which extended to their cottage at Kensington Point.  Peter went on to study at The University of Manitoba where he was a member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity where he made many close and lifelong friendships.  Peter had a wide range of passions and interests, mainly focused on sports. He spent many years coaching athletics at Bawating and Sir James Dunn, which were the cornerstones of his coaching career.  Football, hockey, basketball and cross-country skiing were his highlights.  During these years, he influenced the development of his players, both athletically and personally, and built long lasting friendships with them whereby they remained in touch throughout his life.  Peter ended his career as Administrator of Adult and Continuing Education.  When Peter retired, he spent winters in Florida with Mickey, where they made many wonderful friendships.  They bought a cottage on St Joe’s Island where so many family and friends have sat on their porch for a drink and a sunset. Peter was a truly unique individual with an uncanny ability to engage with people, tell stories and build enduring friendships.  He loved people and people loved him; he will be dearly missed. Friends are invited to visit at the Arthur Funeral Home – Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St E, 705-759-2522) on Sunday, September 17, 2017 from 2 – 4 pm and 6 – 8 pm. Funeral Mass to be celebrated from St. Gerard Majella Catholic Church on Monday, September 18, 2017 at 11 am. Rev. Alex Saurianthadathil officiating. Memorial contributions to the Matthews Memorial Hospital Auxiliary would be appreciated.