We Remember
BEVAN, Peter Graham
December 21, 1944 — April 17, 2024
On April 17, 2024, in Kelowna, BC, Peter Bevan passed away surrounded by family unexpectedly at the age of 79. Peter was born on December 21, 1944, in England.
Peter is survived by his beloved wife, Eileen Bevan, married for 59 years; his children, Troy Bevan (Carmen) and Chad Bevan (Karen); grandchildren Mary, Jessica, Ryan, Rylan, and Kenya; as well as his niece, Tanya Bevan. Sadly, he was predeceased by his stepdaughter, Tracy Sinclair; granddaughter, Katelin Bevan; brother, John Bevan; and nephew, Clinton Bevan.
Born in England, Peter embarked on a remarkable journey that traversed continents and cultures. Immigrating, with his family at a young age, to South Africa, he found himself patrolling the sun-kissed beaches of Durban as a lifeguard before heeding the call to serve in the South African Navy as an Officer. In 1965, he sealed his fate in matrimonial bliss with his beloved Eileen, a union that would endure the test of time. Peter’s and Eileen’s adventurous spirits beckoned them across the seas once more, landing them in the welcoming embrace of Canada in 1969. They lived throughout their new county, from the maritime charms of Halifax, Nova Scotia, to the rugged landscapes of Calgary, Alberta. They finally settled amidst the coastal splendour of Victoria, British Columbia, in 1974, where they made their lives for nearly half a century. As a husband, Peter was a pillar of strength and generosity, his unyielding loyalty and love a refection of his character
It is often said that a person “loved to travel” but, Peter’s wanderlust really didn’t know any bounds, he crisscrossed the globe, leaving footprints on every continent save Antarctica. From the vast expanses of Australia, where he embarked on a spirited “walkabout,” to the enchanting allure of Asia, his travels attest to his insatiable curiosity and zest for life. Of course, Eileen was there by his side as his favourite travel companion. Together they could enjoy anywhere.
Peter was grounded in his irrepressible happiness and joie de vivre. A charming goofball with a penchant for mischief, his British wit and sarcasm were as unmistakable as they were endearing. His mission in life was simple yet profound: to ignite joy in the hearts of those around him (aka “Make them smile”).
Though we bid Peter “A Hui Hou,” a Hawaiian farewell echoing the sentiment of “Until we meet again,” his spirit lives on.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
I am so sorry to hear of Peter’s passing. I knew Peter as a fellow Pemberton Holmes agent. He would always take time out of his busy day to stop, chat and share stories about his beloved family. His warm smile, gentle voice and calm demeanor were always a welcome break from an otherwise hectic day. I will miss you my friend. Till we meet again,
Peter made the world a happier place. I was fortunate to work with Peter at Pemberton Holmes. He brightened up the office. His quick wit and banter, coupled with his grin and giggle could put a smile on anyone’s face. He was a hard worker and a great mentor. His love and pride for his family was evident as that’s when he really lit up, when speaking about them. He left a lasting impression, and will be greatly missed. Sending my sincere condolences to Peter’s family.
I am so sorry to hear that Peter has passed on. Like him, I was a regular in the Cloverdale office and saw him almost every day for five years, becoming friends as well as colleagues, sharing stories about our backgrounds in South Africa and Australia and often a laugh.
My thoughts are with his family and friends.
Peter was a super hero! He was always super nice, super knowledgeable, super courteous, super trustworthy, super professional with a super sense of humour! I’m so grateful to have the privilege to work with my super hero at Pemberton Holmes! Thank you, Peter! Bon Voyage!
Eileen and family,
Please accept our condolences with fond memories of Peter. I worked in the PHCommercial Dept from 1977 ‘ish for 15 years or so and knew Peter well – a good man and we will miss him. He never let on that he had 6 years on me!
Very best wishes
Richard Holmes
My condolences to Eileen and all the family. Very saddened about Peters passing. Peter was my commercial mentor/partner on many business adventures over the years. I always looked up to him. Peter you were a great guy, one of the last true gentleman. A man who always stood by his word.
Your humour, knowledge, humbleness, chats, advice and laughter will be sadly missed. Rest in Paradise!
My deepest condolences to the Bevan family.
Peter and I worked together at Pemberton Holmes and on some commercial deals together. He was always lovely to work with and helpful if you had any questions. I used to tease him and ask when he was going to retire so I could finally make some money. He’d always laugh and have a funny comeback. He loved his work and his clients. One time he came to the back office where I was sitting and he said something in another language (or maybe it was his accent) and I responded back in Punjabi. We were laughing so hard I had tears.
He is missed! Until we meet again my friend.
Kash Burley
Dear Chad, We are sorry to learn of the passing of your Dad. Your Dad was always a warm & friendly face when I visited Lane & Don at church in Victoria. Our sincere sympathy to you & your family, Love Bob & Lois Robertson
My deepest condolences. I am so grateful to have had Peter in my life the little bit I did. What a great man. I was so excited for him retiring in Hawaii. I am glad however that he had a good number of years in the sun with his family before heading out.
Peter was a good friend who helped me a lot.
My sincere condolences to the family
I met Peter at the PH office,, he was very friendly and welcoming. I enjoyed meeting him
So very sorry to hear of Peter’s passing. We weren’t in the same office but whenever our paths crossed you knew it would be a good experience. Being a fellow Brit. I knew the banter tinged with sarcasm would be present. Peter was a gentleman in our profession and is missed. My thoughts go out to his wife and family.
Kathleen and I offer our sincere condolences to the Family. Peter was a gentleman through and through. Smart, innovative, quick witted and most of all a genuinely human colleague who placed family and integrity above all else. I shall miss his jovial and optimistic manner.. Truly one of a kind, he made Pemberton Holmes a better place. Gary McInnis
My deepest condolences to Peter’s family. I met Peter the very first time at the old office on Government Street, which was many years ago, and became friends. He was always gracious and helpful when I needed, and I will remember him for his kindness. I will miss him Peter dearly. May his soul rest in peace.
I wish the family peace—and joy in their memories of Peter. Peter was kind, wise, and always open for a chat in the office. He will be missed by many.
So very sorry to hear of Peter’s passing. A remarkable man, with an infectious laugh. Always willing to go out of his way to help others and lend a helping hand whenever he could. Deepest sympathy to all his family.
Peter and I served together at the Naval Gymnasium at Gordons Bay Western Cape South Africa
for the whole of 1962. I remember him well as an honest very likeable young ordinary seaman. After that I had no further
contact with him, which I regret. When he arrived in Gordon’s Bay Naval base – early January 1962 he had very long hair.
When he was summoned by the naval barber stationed at the base along with all of us the barber asked him where he had come from,.
He answered – “Stilfontein” a mining town near Johannesburg.. After that his nickname was “Stilfontein”. I presume
his father worked there. I attach a pic of the our group taken about June 1962 at what was then the Naval Gunnery
school on the mountain above Simonstown. Looking at the pic Peter is in the front row either third from the left or next to me at the right end of the front row. My memory fails me on this point of identity.
For the sake of memories of long ago I deeply regret his passing.