Obituary of Peter William Millar

Millar, Peter

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Peter Millar (Chmilar) Sr.  peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, July 2^nd, 2023, at 11:40 p.m. at Westmount Gardens, London, Ontario.  Peter was born on June 4^th, 1921, in Mundare, Alberta to Basil (William) Chmilar and Maria Szewozuk (Mary Shewchuk).  He was the youngest of his siblings Nestor, Father Gregory, Mary, and Louis.

Peter met his future bride, Helen Steczyszyn, in Toronto and married her on June 12th, 1946, at Holy Ghost Church in Brooklands, Winnipeg, Manitoba.  They moved to Sudbury where Peter got a job in the mines at Inco, and they gave birth to their first two sons, Greg and Dennis.  In 1954, they moved to London where Peter got a job at the London Free Press as a linotype operator/proofreader, and they had two more sons, Bill, and Peter Jr.

In 1961, Peter bought a plot of land from the Zabehaylos and started Millar Berry Farms.  He worked the farm during the day and then caught a short nap before going into work at the London Free Press for the night shift.  In 1967, he built a house on the farm and sold his house in London to officially become a farmer.  He soon after retired from the job at the London Free Press to work full time on the farm.  He helped out many who were new to Canada and provided them with a job and his support.

Peter is survived by his wife Helen, sons Greg, Bill and Peter; daughters-in-law Sylvia (Bill’s Wife), Erna (Peter’s Wife), Brenda (Son Dennis’wife); grandchildren Jeremiah (& Kathleen), Daryl (& Jason), Matt, Caleb (& Grace), Joshua (& Susan); great-grandchildren Brooklyn, Ronan, Link, Raelynn, Reggie, and Rowan.

Peter was predeceased by his son Dennis, daughter-in-law Debbie, granddaughter Sherri; and great-granddaughter Rue.

Peter prided himself on nutrition, fitness, and natural health.  He swore off doctors and pharmaceuticals after being treated for colon cancer in 1984.  He lived at home and worked in the fields well into his 90s.  He made sure that his farm will be well looked after up to his last days.  Even at 102, his first question was always “How is the farm?”

Peter will be remembered for his dedication and passion for his work.  He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.  Our family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff at Westmount Gardens for providing comfort in his final chapter, and as they continue to care for Helen.

At Peter’s request, there will be no visitation or funeral service.  A Celebration of Peter’s life will take place at a later date.  On-line condolences are available through www.mcfarlane-roberts.ca.  McFarlane & Roberts Funeral Home, London, (Lambeth), Ontario (652-2020) in care of arrangements. 

 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Peter Millar, please visit Tribute Store