Tuesday, November 19, 2024
Peter and I first met when I began attending Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) parish-church in midtown Toronto, some 40 years ago. He was pleased that my wife Joanne (deceased) was in the choir with his father, and often urged me to join. But Pete and I added much appreciated singing (some would say noise, only referring to me), from the two front-row pews we occupied.
Later on when I was finished with leading the Children's Liturgy 'at the 9.30,' I often found time to go after Mass with him to his favourite burger joint at Eglinton West and Oriole Parking for breakfast, Peter always setting a brisk pace. (He loved walking all over midtown Toronto and often down to Lake Ontario). If he was here today (Nov 19), we would head downtown to join our beloved Argos and fans in celebrating another Grey Cup win.
Weekday trivia (and the occassional cocktail) at the Bull & Firkin won't be the same without Peter, and I know for a fact he's already missed by his 5 teammates. His music, geography and general knowledge complemented my skills in history and politics, and we both did a good job with sports' questions, the older the timeframe, the better.
You fought the good fight, Pete, now rest in peace and enjoy family and friends, especially the OLPH crowd, in heaven. I'll miss you, bud.
Dave Paolini
