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Hank Petersen

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Hank Petersen

April 11, 1925 - November 14, 2014

Tribute

It is with great sadness that we say farewell to Henry (Hank) Petersen born on April 11, 1925 in Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia and died on November 14, 2014 in Oliver, BC. Hank was predeceased by his parents Karla and Christian Petersen and his older brother, Carl Christian Petersen.

Henry is survived by his loving soulmate of  58 years, Joan Margaret Petersen, his six children, Christian, Paul (Donna), Michael ( Louisa), Katharine (David), Karen (Stephen), and Terrence (Dee) and his adored grandchildren: Ryan, Anne-Marie, David, Ian, Samantha, Sean, Graeme, Matthew, Mark, Laura, Jenelle, Shay and Simon.

Henry spent his childhood in Copenhagen, Denmark, and served in the Danish underground movement during WW2 as a young man.  In 1950 he journeyed to Ontario, Canada to study rural farming techniques. The lure of the west coast enticed him and he first worked at Wood Fibre Pulp Mill before becoming a salmon fisher with his own troller.  After the loss of his vessel during a heavy storm off Texada Island, he pursued a career in education. 

Henry spent one year at Normal School in Vancouver and began his career at SOSS, teaching senior social studies. He became a Canadian Citizen in 1955, and moved to Oliver where he fell in love with Nurse Joan Ryan.  They were married in December 1956 in the Chapel of St. Martin's Hospital. He was appointed Vice-Principal of the school in Osoyoos and the Vice-Principal of the Oliver Elementary School. In 1973 Hank was selected as Principal of OES, where he served for the next fifteen years until retiring in 1988.  He inspired and enriched the lives of students which earned him the respect of many. Hank was a man of enormous integrity.

Henry was a consummate gentleman. He was an outdoor enthusiast, and a keen athlete with a deep appreciation for the arts.  His favourite times were spent sharing his passions with his family. He will be dearly missed.

At the  rising of the sun and at its setting,
We remember him.
As long as we live, he too will live
For he is now a part of us,
As we remember him.

He served as a volunteer on the board of the Southern Okanagan Association for Integrated Community Living (SOAICL).   In lieu of flowers, we kindly request that donations may be made to SOAICL (Box138, Oliver, BC V0H 1T0). 

A funeral mass will be celebrated by Fr. Neil Lustado at 11:00 A.M. Friday November 21, 2014 at Christ the King Catholic Church followed by a reception in the church lower hall.

Condolences and tributes may be directed to the family by visiting www.nunes-pottinger.com

Arrangements entrusted to Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service & Crematorium, Oliver & Osoyoos. 

Condolences

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Pages: 12

From: jo tanner
Relation: past student

to Joan and the Peterson family sooo sorry for your loss. Hank was an amazing man sending prayers for strength during this difficult time

From: Shelley
Relation: Relationship - How did you know the deceased?

Although I did not know Hank well I do know the amazing influence he had on his family, and in particular his daughter, Karen …. May you all gain strength from being together during this sad time and hopefully sharing good family memories – inspired by Hank. Thinking of you all- Shelley Hardcastle and family

From: Leo & Roma Pedersen
Relation: Friends of the family

During our 40 years here we have always valued our visits with Hank and his recollections of the Denmark of his youth.
Our sincere condolence to the family.
Leo and Roma Pedersen

From: Lidia and Fatima Correia
Relation: Family friend

Our sincere condolences for your loss as he was a unique and special person in so many ways and I know will be sorely missed by those in his circle. My mother has wonderful memories of Mr. Petersen especially of his kindness when he taught her English. I remember getting into trouble as a student for talking too much and that stung, but I also remember his humour and graciousness. We will not be able to make it to the funeral, but will be thinking of you during this difficult time of grief.

From: Brian and Lorraine Wensley
Relation: Neighbours

Dear Joan, Our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Brian and Lorraine Wensley

From: Edda Rott
Relation: Friend

Dear Paul and Family,
I’m so sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts are with you at this time. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Kindest regards,
Edda

From: Lena Thompson
Relation: Former Teacher/Principal

Peterson Family,
Our deepest sympathies to you all on hearing of the passing of Hank. I remember him while attending elementary school in Osoyoos and going to school with some of his children. He will always be remembered.

Pages: 12

Service Schedule

  Funeral Service

Date & Time:
November 21, 2014
Beginning at 11:00am

Location:
Christ the King Catholic Church
6044 Spartan Street
Oliver, BC Canada

A funeral mass will be celebrated by Fr. Neil Lustado at 11:00 A.M. Friday November 21, 2014 at Christ the King Catholic Church.

6044 Spartan Street
Oliver, BC Canada

Memorial Gifts

The family has not designated a preferred charity at this time.

Thank You Notice

Send Flowers

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6049 Main Street, Oliver, BC
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Local: (250) 498-0088     Toll free: (844) 498-0088

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5859 Main Street, Oliver, BC
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Local: (778) 439-2270     Toll free: (800) 665-9983

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