May 13, 1942 - July 26, 2024

In loving memory ~

Peter MINSHULL, a beloved educator, art enthusiast, and father, died peacefully in Comox, on July 26, 2024 with his loving son John at his side.

Born in Vancouver in 1942 to Vera (Tipping) and Raymond Minshull, Peter and his sister Sara (1946-2020) lost their father at a young age. As a teenager, Peter was a drummer with the Vancouver Kitsilano Boys Band. The band's European tour, performing for lodging as they went, remained one of Peter's most vibrant memories. From preschool to university Peter's life was punctuated with gifted art teachers who nourished his keen eye for colour, pattern, and light. This guidance set him on a path to becoming an inspiring art teacher himself. His passion for art extended beyond teaching; he became an enthusiastic art docent for the Artists for Kids program and an avid collector, filling his home with works by BC artists.

Peter brought his love of teaching to the West Vancouver school district where he would go on to serve as a vice principal, BCTF executive, and computer coordinator. He actively advocated for education, negotiating with the interests of teachers in mind, always aiming to positively impact the student learning experience.

Peter's personal life was rich with love and companionship. He met his wife Helen (nee Rogers) while working summers at Jasper Park Lodge, where they fell in love through their letters and a shared love of fun. Peter and Helen enjoyed life even more fully in retirement. They loved to travel and dance, sometimes combining the two. He lost his best friend when Helen passed away in April, 2012.

Peter loved music and was an active member of the Dixieland Jazz Society. It gave him great pleasure to support the next generation of jazz musicians. He was fortunate to have had a second great love, his dance partner Sharon McGavin. They enjoyed a decade of adventures and celebrations with her family until her passing in August, 2022.

As a teacher, husband, father, and friend, Peter was dedicated, generous, and loving. He will be dearly missed by his sons John and Thomas, daughter Catherine, and grandchildren Sara, Ada, and Henry.

Join us to celebrate Peter's life, see details here: https://pp.events/peterminshull