Peter Charles Ballem

16 Responses

1. Peter and I were rugby teammates 50 years ago in Vancouver. In those days, his toughness, smarts, and humanity shone through. Some 20 years later, I found myself as his fuel supplier during his Okanagan days. We again enjoyed some delightful conversations, usually with him proudly wearing his distinctive farming hat. Sincere condolences to all his loved ones.

2. My husband Terry and I were in High School with Peter in Montreal. I do remember that twinkle in his eyes, and the kindness that he showed to everyone. We saw him not too long ago in La Quinta watching the American Express Golf Tournament. It was so wonderful to see him after so many years. We are very sorry for your loss Allison, and we extend our heartfelt sympathies. The world has lost a treasure.

3. I was deeply saddened to read of Peter’s death in the Globe this morning and wish to send my condolences and sympathies to his family on his death and the loss of a really great guy! I met Peter at McGill in the 1960s heydays, introduced by mutual friends. I am a Montrealer and loved meeting so many people from all over Canada and the world at school. We had many good times together in a group of fellow students and then I graduated and moved to Toronto for further education. Well, so did Peter several years later as he came to U of T Law School and met a very good friend of my husband’s, Dean Higgins. Again we had many memorable times together and then Peter moved west and we did not see each other again, although I met Kate in Toronto years later at a women in medicine event, in my role as Chair of the Board of Women’s College Hospital – she reminded me of her darling Dad. My memories are of Peter in another time, but they are very fond ones and so his obituary rang so true – a tremendous fellow and friend. with my condolences,
   Scriv (ass he knew me) Ann Scrivener Kerwin

4. I met Peter in Kelowna in 2007 or ‘08 I’m not certain.
   I reconnected with him in Victoria soon after he made the move.
   I always enjoyed his sense of humour and his kind way.
   He will be missed by the many people whose lives he touched.
   He had a positive impact on my life and for that I’m very grateful.

5. Peter was an outstanding person in so many ways. When we met in Law School and on the University of Toronto Rugby Team, I quickly realized Peter was one of those rare individuals who was an outstanding athlete and scholar. We were friends for over fifty years. Peter’s head injury sidetracked some of his plans, but I never heard him complain or suggest that life had treated him unfairly. He had great strength of character.
   I want to express my deepest sympathy to Alison and all Peter’s family. He was absolutely one of a kind.

6. Peter has been my dear friend for twenty years. My strongest memory of him is walking down Dallas Road, as he quoted contract law. I would correct him if he missed a word. It must have worked. He started practicing again. I spoke with him on the phone last week. My heart is broken.

7. My deepest condolences. Peter was of support to me in the Lawyer’s Assistance Program during a very difficult time in my life. I will remember him for his compassionate service to others.

8. Peter has left a legacy with his generous and tender spirit. This will live on.

9. Carnsew Street has lost one of its own. I remember Peter for his hand-crafted walking sticks. He used to salvage seasticks from the beach and work on them in his driveway. I own and treasure one of those sticks, shaped by the sea and smoothed by Peter.
   Walk on dear man.

10. My condolences on the loss of Peter – what a wonderful gentleman he was when he used to come and watch me sing!