Peter Joseph MacVoy

He was in my class in grade school. He was bullied badly, that decade in St Mike's was notorious for bullying, like bad, teachers were part of problem. The bullies of that era became even worse adults, I hope this didn't have anything to do with his adult life. Allot of really bad people, came from St Mike's. And unfortunately still have influence today.

Wherever Peter went, he was a magnet of kindness & friendship amongst those who knew him, and also a beacon for those just trying to find their way. I once was one of the latter: when I came to London, he was a kind, welcoming, hopeful, fun and gregarious person who became my friend; I am privileged of the former now -- thank you Peter! He also inspired and encouraged many others, and those of his students who have come my way, adored him and appreciated his support. I know you have gone into the Light, but with you, it will shine ever brighter, and even there, you will help others to find their way, as you did for many of us. Sincere condolences to his family and friends, and a great loss for our community.

So shocked and heartbroken over Peter's passing, it's hard to find words. We had so many great adventures together, at conventions, get-togethers, parties, and musical events...I hadn't seen him in awhile but I never knew a kinder, sweeter, funnier, more loyal soul than him. All my most positive and healing energies to his family and other friends, students and colleagues.

I am so sorry to hear about Peter's passing. Although many years have passed since I last saw him, I remember vividly his cheerfulness and his passion for music, languages and people. My heartfelt condolences to Peter's students, colleagues, friends and family, and especially to Mary.

My deepest condolences to the MacVoy family and Peter's colleagues, friends and those who knew this remarkable man. My dear friend Peter, I just realized today I've known you for over 20 years now. I met you at Frosh week at King's College, U.W.O. You were a Soph and we hit it off immediately, with me as an incoming Frosh. Only did I find out later that you were friends with my best friend and his friend; small world. We chummed around quite a bit back then. I'm lucky to have met you. I have fond memories of our conversations over the years and that funny day on the way to the beach in my beat up old '84 Chevette when we were in University. I remember that you were in the front passenger seat, and as I stopped at a gas station to fuel up my car it sputtered and coughed for at least two full minutes (probably the radiator). My best friend Chris, in the back seat, was mortified to be in such a crappy beat up car and was trying to hide under the window from onlookers, but you had a smile on your face, laughing that hearty laugh of yours. You thought it was hilarious, as it was. You always inspire me to be the best version of myself. I know I have a friend waiting for me in heaven to greet me with your trademark warm hug. Until then, I'll miss you always. Love you forever, Laurie

My deepest sympathies to David, and his family, at the loss of your brother. His accomplishments indicate the loss of a wonderful man, one who will be greatly missed. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

My Heart felt condolences to Peters friends and Family. I always looked forward to seeing Peter when ever friends would get together. His loving and friendly nature and ease that he would make others feel both comfortable and welcome. We had many great conversations and debates on a wide range of conversions. I will miss, his energy and life and we were I believe all better off in knowing him and without him the world is a sadder place.

I am so sorry for your loss. My thought and prayers are with your family.

How sad it is to hear the news of the passing of such a creative, kind and gentle man. My condolences to family, friends and all who had the pleasure of meeting this wonderful person who will be greatly missed by all.

Mr.Macvoy is the reason I am still in school today! He was my English teacher at the time of my mothers passing and he refused to let me give up! I have had countless heart to heart conversations with him throughout the years. He would always comment on my wild and vibrant hair colour choices and would bring up the most random topics just as an excuse to have a conversation with me. He would stop me in the hall everytime he saw me just to ask if I was ok. He would always know if I was lying about how I really felt. Mr.Macvoy is the reason I am who I am today. He encouraged me to get into writing. I always said I wasn't good enough be he showed me I was wrong. I now use writing everyday as a way of self expression and to help me get through any situation. He's the teacher everyone looks up to. He cared more about students than just assigning worksheets. With his passing he has taught all of us as lesson. He lives everyday to the fullest and that's what we all remember him for. High School for me has sucked at times but he's helped to make it bearable! He always made a effort to have a personal relationship with students and to show them he is someone they can confide in and trust! You weren't only my teacher you were and still are my mentor! I honestly don't know how I am going to go to school Monday. Just walking in those doors I'm going to have such a hard time! You live on in the hearts of all the students at Westminster because "Once a Wildcat, Always a Wildcat!"

Once upon a time I had a best friend and his name was Peter MacVoy. We lost touch over the years but when we did touch base, it was like the years had never passed. I am so deeply saddened by the news of his passing and offer my sympathies to Dave, Mary, Kim and the rest of his family, friends and his students who I know were so important to him. I wish I could be there to say goodbye. Forever your runaround Sue.

To Heather and the MacVoy family, my deepest condolences on your loss. I am so saddened to learn of Peter's passing.

I am so sorry for you loss. Thinking of you at tbis difficult time.

I am so sorry for your loss. I really have no words to truly express the depth of my sorrow for you all. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. Shannon

Dear Rosie and family, My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you and your family. As a Mom, I can only imagine your loss. I always remember Peter as a kind and gentle young man. You often spoke of him with such love and pride. Please know that you, your children and your extended family are in my thoughts and prayers. Lorna Macaulay

Dave, James ,Heather ,Kim and Mary. We are very sorry to hear of Peters passing. I remember him from Central as he was in my Sister Erin Kates class. Could you please pass on our Condolences to your Mom and Dad too please. I am very sorry too that circumstances will not allow us to be there today in person. I hope the many messages of Love and support will comfort you at this very difficult time. Sincerely, Sean Sweeney and Mary Jane Murray.

My deepest condolences on this loss. Peter was always a bright light everywhere he went, he will truly be missed.

My deepest condolences to the MacVoy family. Peter was one of the nicest people I knew, always ready with a hug, always larger than life. He was always up for some fun - he decorated the room for my 50th birthday party for me when I had no idea what to do. I'll never forget the humungeous plastic palm trees he had placed gracing the entrance. The whole thing was outrageously silly and totally Peter. He will be sorely missed.

Peter Macvoy taught me English nearly a decade ago now. His courage to be genuine made a difference in his student's lives, perhaps because he was so conventionally unconventional. He was a good person with a poetic personality that could regularly transform the monotonous parts of life into interesting and remarkable moments. In our younger days he could beat me in an armwrestle and allowing others to delight in such simple feats of life was too, one of his admirable qualities. Those who met him would notice what one might describe as 'impeccable attentive courtesy' always showing an authentic politeness in his attitude and behaviour towards others. He was an honest and honourable man, seen regularly gleaming with humor. If there is more one would ask out of a friend I do not know of it. I am lucky to have known him.

So very sorry to hear of Peter's passing. Thinking of you all, especially my old dear friend James.

Once upon a time I had a little brother and his name was Peter MacVoy... Liebe Rose, lieber Chuck, liebe Kim, liebe Mary, lieber James, lieber David und meine geliebte Heather, es tut mir unendlich leid, dass ihr (wir) so einen schweren Verlust zu ertragen habt. Ich bin untröstlich, all mein Mitgefühl und Trauer ist bei euch und euren Familien. Fühlt euch von mir gedrückt und ich bin in Gedanken bei euch. Peter, mein kleiner Bruder... als ich Dich am 5. September 1984 kennen- und lieben lernen durfte, war mir sofort klar, dass ein ganz besonderer Mensch in mein Leben getreten ist. Neben Deiner Familie, die mich in ihrer Mitte aufgenommen und zum "9. MacVoy" gemacht hat, warst Du es, der mir die kanadische Welt gezeigt hast. All die Kleinigkeiten, Besonderheiten, Wunder und Kuriositäten des Alltags konntest Du in ein ganz besonderes Licht tauchen. Niemand sonst hätte mir die zweite Währung in Canada erklären können... und Du warst ein Meister der Coupons ;-)). Du hast mir gezeigt, wie man Hamburger ist, das Busfahren erklärt, die Besonderheiten des kanadischen Fernsehprogramms erklärt und warst mein wandelndes Lexikon und Dictionary... Dein Lachen, Deine ganz besondere Sicht der Dinge, Deine Sorge um andere Menschen, die Tiefgründigkeit, die Dich immer erfüllt hat, wird der Welt fehlen. Mir, Deiner Familie und Deinen Freunden, besonders aber Deiner großen Schwester Heather. Ich wünsche ihr und Dir, dass sie trotzdem weiter fliegen kann, auch ohne ihren zweiten Flügel... Pete, ich durfte mit Dir wunderschöne Urlaube erleben, Campingreisen in Canada und in Deutschland, durfte mit Dir lustige Abende mit Freibier im JoeCools bei viel Acapella-Gesang erleben und nächtelange Gespräche über "Gott und die Welt" führen... Danke, dass Du mein Leben bereichert hast und Dir Zeit für mich genommen hast. Ich weiß, dass Dein Leben noch lange nicht zu Ende hätte sein dürfen, doch ich bin mir sicher, dass Du einen tollen Engel abgibst und den Himmel mit Deinem Gesang erfüllst und mit Deinem warmherzigen Lächeln erhellst. Ich werde Dich nie vergessen aber stets vermissen. Your german brother Axel

My heartfelt condolences to all who knew and loved Peter. He was a really wonderful guy. I wasn't surprised at all to learn that Peter became a teacher. We were in band together at Central, sang in school musicals and he was always a caring, invested friend. I'm sure that's just part of what made him a great teacher, too.

Heather , Dino and MacVoy family: Sending heartfelt condolences to your entire family keeping you all in our hearts and prayers

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(Donated to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario)

(Donated to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario)

(Donated to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario)

(Donated to Kids Help Phone)

I remember the MacVoys from my days at Central and I am shocked and saddened that this is the first news of the family I have seen since then. My heartfelt condolences to Peter's family and friends for a loss suffered much, much too soon. I would like to pay my respects personally, but I am in another province and will not be able to. My apologies. I will be thinking of everyone. RIP Peter.

I did not have the pleasure of knowing Peter but I know how real and warm a family he has come from through Mary. My heartfelt condolences.

We were very sad to read about Peter. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this very sad time. Keith and Jeanette

I will always remember singing and cracking a laugh with Mr. MacVoy... he would always be one of the first teachers to say "good morning" to me, he always gave me good advice throughout the day and said that I would do great in whatever I had that day. One of the fondest memory I have of him is when we sang Christmas songs before school hours, just a few days before the holidays started and we had the time of our lives... not to mention, we share the same interest in music! I may not have ever had him as a teacher, but he will always be in my heart, and he will always be remembered as a fun-loving, music-loving guy. My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and everyone at Westminster Secondary. Rest in peace, Mr. Peter MacVoy. We all love you, and we will never forget you and your kindhearted soul. Once a Wildcat... always a Wildcat. ♥

Dear Heather and David: My deepest sympathy for your loss! I worked with Peter numerous years ago in St. Marys where he directed a musical for our theatre group. I remember his deep sense of fun, and his wonderful vision working with us. I have lots of good memories of that time with Peter, and I'm sure that your memories will be a support for the rest of your lives. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

My condolences to the MacVoy family.

I remember Peter as a very bright boy , full of laughter , playing on the farm. always smiling & entertaining ! condolences to your family & rest in peace Peter a former neighbor

Dear Rosie, Heather and Family, I read of your son/brothers passing and wanted to extend my sincere condolences to both of you. I know that there are no words that can take away your pain at this time, but know that time and loving memories will help. Keeping you close in thought and prayers. Anne Pincombe

Mr. MacVoy was by far my favourite teacher during my time at Westminster. He was one of the most approachable , fun loving teachers at the school, and I remember my friends and I always looked forward to going to his class. He will be sadly missed . My deepest condolences to his family .

Our sympathy and prayers, especially for my friends Heather and Dave.

My heartfelt condolences to the entire family. It is with such sorrow that I won't be able to attend the services this weekend due to professional commitments. My heart is so heavy from the loss of such a dear, kind and loving friend. May we each remember how much of a blessing he was to each of us. He made life worth living.

Peter will be sadly missed by so many of us. We would always seem to find each other at a convention and sing together. I will miss his big hugs and beautiful soul.

The words escape me. To find this news this morning really tore at my heart. I will miss his smile but mostly hugs. My prayers are with you, Mary, and your family at this time. A huge hole in our lives has been created with the loss of such a person as Peter.

So saddened by the news of Mr. Mcvoy passing.. You were a fantastic teacher and all around great person. My thoughts amd prayers are with the family, friends and fellow Wildcats!.

Brother Dave, Nat, Keilyn, Clayton, Karlee, and all of Peter's beloved family and friends, We are so saddened by this sudden loss and are sending you our strength and love during this difficult time. What I will remember most about Peter is his smile. While singing in our backyard, while standing up with you at your wedding (dancing the "wedding party dance" at your reception), and when I popped by his classroom one day while working at his school - his smile was a bit giddy and always infectious. Peter made me feel welcome as "Nat's little sister" from the start, and I know he was loved dearly as a little brother to Dave and his other siblings. May you all find comfort in the fact that Peter was admired by many, and may his creative and artistic soul rest peacefully knowing that he changed others' lives for the better.

Peter was a good friend to me while at West. He was a great support, advisor and cheerleader. He took pride in pushing his students and friends to succeed. He was warm and welcoming to anyone who crossed his path. He loved to be creative and took the extra time to make things beautiful. I remember saying to him during his creation for the rose campaign "why don't you just buy fake roses at the dollar store?" His reply was "It won't look as nice and this is something that needs to look nice, plus it's fun! I'll never forget his crocheted halloween masks, they were wonderfully made and were hilarious just like him. My deep condolences to his family and friends. He has left us way too soon but take comfort in knowing the incredible impact he made. Knowing him was a blessing.

Peter was a good friend to me while at West. He was a great support, advisor and cheerleader. He took pride in pushing his students and friends to succeed. He was warm and welcoming to anyone who crossed his path. He loved to be creative and took the extra time to make things beautiful. I remember saying to him during his creation for the rose campaign "why don't you just buy fake roses at the dollar store?" His reply was "It won't look as nice and this is something that needs to look nice, plus it's fun! I'll never forget his crocheted halloween masks, they were wonderfully made and we're hilarious just like him. My deep condolences to his family and friends. He has left us way too soon but take comfort in knowing the incredible impact he made. Knowing him was a blessing.

Peter had such a beautiful heart and soul, we thank God for the gift of his life. To his parents, siblings, extended family and friends, We wish you healing and peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in you hearts. With heartfelt condolences, we are sharing your sorrow.

I am shocked and saddened to hear about Peter's passing. Peter and I were at Central together. I was not surprised that Peter went on to become a teacher, and I imagine that he has enriched the lives of many within the TVDSB system - students, teachers and administrators alike. I had the pleasure of running in to him a few years ago at Loblaws and catching up on 20 years was so natural - it was like no time had passed. My sincere condolences to the MacVoy family, and to all of Peter's friends, students and colleagues. RIP Peter. Gone too soon.

Mr. MacVoy was the brightest most cheerful teacher I had ever met in my entire life. He brought so many people laughter and joy every single day and taught me many life lessons that I will remember forever. He was such a kind-hearted man, with the most joyous attitude and positive outlook on things. I am honored and blessed to have known him, and it is heartbreaking to hear about his passing. Sincere condolences to Peters family and friends.

Peter, I will miss your quick sense of humor, your infectious laughter, your ready smile and the ever-present twinkle in your eye. You were a terrific and supportive friend to so many, and you will be very much missed. You have left us grieving your loss, bewildered at the suddenness of your departure, but better for having known you. My heartfelt condolences to the entire MacVoy family, and to all who knew and loved Peter. May you take comfort in one another at this most difficult and tragic of times.

I'm sure there is crochet in the afterlife, from the ridiculous to the sublime, I will miss you so much.

My heartfelt sympathies to Peter's family - and big hugs to both Heather and Dave. I have such great memories of laughing and singing with Peter, and know that you will miss him tremendously, as will so many others.

Peter you were the very best friend anyone could ever hope to have. You gave so much to so many people. You changed my life for the better the day you walked into it. I will miss you every day. Jason and I wish your family our very deepest sympathies.

I'm in shock with the news of Peter's passing and send deepest condolences to all his family and dear friends. Memories of past times with Peter include going to Port Stanley and celebrating the Iron Horse Festival with his sister Mary in St. Thomas. Going up to the Elvis Festival in Collingwood. Playing Rock Band at any of his parties. But, what I'll miss most of all are the philosophical chats we had. Thank you for being so special and giving, Peter. You'll be missed by all who knew you.

So sorry to hear of your loss Mary... My condolences to you and your family... Take care... <3

To Mary and the members of the MacVoy family, my heartfelt condolences. Peter was a wonderful man. From the time I first met him, his smile, humour, and love of life was what made him stand out. I enjoyed the times we ran into each other at a convention or other times with mutual friends. Was like we had just spoken to each other. And yet, those times were magical with laughter and lots of hugs! He was so full of life and we would speak for hours. His passion was teaching and I felt that kinship as a fellow teacher. Peter will be remembered for his smile, his hugs and his generosity for each and every one he met. He will be greatly missed by all of us.

Peter's family, each of you, ROSIE, Chuck, Heather, Kimberly, James, Mary, David and your families, we extended our heartfelt sorrow to you. Peter was truly an amazing son/brother/man. You are in our sincere thoughts and prayers.

My deepest condolences to the whole family, and in particular a big hug to Heather, with whom I have shared many happy evenings in church basements and green rooms. I remember Peter as a young man, the baby brother, a joyful and warm person like his sister, always ready with a smile. I am so sorry for your loss.

To Peter Macvoy. I'm glad I have had the chance to know you as both a mentor and a friend. You have helped me through some of the hardest points in my life and have always been someone I could talk to. I recall all of our hour conversations after school and me interrupting your classes just to say hello. You always had great advice for me or just interesting stories about your condo or family. You were someone I could just talk to regardless of the topic. Reading hasn't always been my strongest point. I truely credit my love and passion for books to Mr peter mavcoy. He taught me how to love reading and helped me pass my final years of school with a lot of one on one, and mentoring. To this day I recall the first book I read, and loved, and it was thanks to Peter for introducing it to me. Even when I graduated high school I was still able to catch up with him for hours at a time. When I turned 19 I remember him promising to take me out for a drink to celebrate. I never got the chance to take him up on the offer, but always went out of my way to give him a visit. If you knew Peter, you knew how much he loved art. We use to talk about it all the time. My favorite conversation with him was about this hunk peace he did. He literally took body parts of men from men's health magazine and pictures of meat, and mashed it together. The art got taken down for being to risky, and he thought it was the funniest thing ever. But that goes to show you. Even when I hadn't seen him for months and so much had changed, we could have simple conversations about how crazy people could be. Ultimately he was one of the best teachers I've had the chance to know, he made such an impact in my life and I would never be shy to say he was one of my favorite people to have know. I'm sure he will be missed by many people, and most definitely missed by my. I want to say thank you Peter for being a kind human being. Rest in peace Peter!

What an amazing impact Mr. MacVoy had on all the kids at Westminster. He was my son's favourite teacher, and he never actually taught him. My son spoke so highly and fondly of Mr. MacVoy and he will be terribly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this most difficult, heartbreaking time.

Dear Heather and the entire Macvoy families Our deepest condolences during this most sorrowful time. We are shocked at Peter's passing and he will be terribly missed. Please know that we love you all so much. Peter REST IN PEACE. Love and prayers Tullio and Rita Stradiotto

Mr. MacVoy was one of the few teachers that understood me. My teenage years were quite difficult.. I was quite difficult, but he always took the extra time to talk to me on my level to get through to me. My first English class with him was so refreshing, he did things out of the norm and gave freedom in his class while still instilling respect among his students. Ironically I learned how to make paper cranes, play Texas Holdem, and how to communicate expressively in his class. We didn't just write stories and explore literature, we acted, sang, and danced out our stories. When I was having a particularly troubled time he would take me aside to listen and then teach me how to channel that angst into an expressive art form. He taught me how to act and sing my worries away, how to tell jokes and make people laugh, how to test the boundaries in a good way. He was an amazing teacher and Westminster Secondary Students were soo blessed to have him. Rest in Sweetest Peace Peter MacVoy <3