Royal Canadian Legion Branch 187
92 King Street East, Colborne, Ontario K0K 1S0
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It is with deep sadness and love that the family announces the passing of John Peter Williams on December 3rd, 2025 at the age of 89.
Pete (aka Poppy) was predeceased by his beloved wife Lillian (Rutherford). He was the loving father to the late Brian (Becky), Ian, Gwen Chapman (Bill), Peter (Julie), Jane Pillsworth (Ron), and John (Jeannie). He also leaves behind 19 grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren (with one more on the way), in-laws June Cuthbert, John and Dale Rutherford, cousin Amy Honey, nieces and nephews, and close lifelong friends. He was the beloved son of the late Cy and Mary Williams and brother of the late Nesta Wiskin (Clare), and the late Patrick.
Dad was always a straight up kind of guy. He was very witty, strong-minded, firm but fair with a gentle side. He was very proud of all his family. He is part of so many great memories at his favourite place ‘up north’ at the family camp on Spring Lake, shared along the way with his family, friends or regular fishing/hunting buddies. He wore many hats…he was a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, cousin, friend, boss, hockey player, coach, fisherman, hunter, salesman, farmer, and community club member. If there was any reason to party, he was present. He loved to dance and kick up his heels, never missing a beat. You would often hear him whistling a favourite tune…keep an ear for one now. He felt that a person should live life to the fullest, as he did.
He was born in Port Hope and moved to the family farm in Colborne when he was a teenager. He attended Colborne High School (currently the town hall), where he met Lil, who would become his wife. After high school, he left home for an education at Guelph but decided quickly he would be better suited as a salesman than a student. He and Lil married in 1956, started their family and moved around for a few years to accommodate his job, with 8 memorable years lived in Lambeth. As their family grew to six children, he and Lil decided it was best to return home to Colborne, to the family farm where they could raise their children in a small rural community. This is where he loved to be and spent his last 50+ years.
Dad respected, treasured and felt very fortunate for all of his lifelong friendships. Special mention to his hunting and fishing buddies Doug, Doc, Percy, and many more.
He left us peacefully, surrounded by family and embraced in love. Forever in our hearts, until we meet again.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks for Dad’s exceptional care to Dr. Caldwell, Community Care, PSWs, VON nurses, Community Paramedicine team, Dr. Tisher, Dr. Mule and all the extraordinary staff at Ed’s House.
Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, December 28th, 2025 at the Colborne Legion from 1-4pm.
If desired, donations may be made to Ed’s House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre in Cobourg or charity of choice.
Sending the Williams family our deepest condolences in the loss of your father/grandfather. We hope your memories help you to heal during this time
Extending sincere sympathy to you and the family. Thinking of you at this time.
Our condolences to all of Pete's family. Cherish your memories. Howard and Barb
Sending my condolences to all the Williams family. Thinking of you all.
We were so sorry to hear of dad's passing. Our thoughts are with you all
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
Deepest condolences to all the family! May your wonderful memories bring you much comfort.
Sorry to hear of your loss. Our condolences go out to the entire Williams family.
Sorry to hear of your father’s passing. Our sincere condolences to you all and your families. What a great place Colborne was to grow up in and know so many great families. The Williams’ family is a great family to know.
From our first connection, Pete and I became lifetime friends. When attending Colborne High, we sometimes tried to leave school early and were caught and reprimanded by the very stern principal W.R. Baxter. After finishing school our favourite way to spend some time together was hunting and fishing at the camp in Bancroft. Pete introduced me to hunting and we spent many happy hours in the boat fishing on Spring Lake. Some of the best times were spent outside around the campfire. Frequently the loons would come up at night and we would listen to their calls. We are thankful to have so many happy memories of our time with Pete and Lil.
condolences to the Williams families, sorry for your loss
Peter,Julie and Family, Sending our deepest condolences to you at this sad time.Cherish your Memories.
Our most sincere condolences ,to all the family, especially Gwen and Bill. For the few times we met your father, we saw a kind man with a good sense of humour. Rest in peace and our prayers are with the family in their grieving.
Our condolences to the Williams family on the loss of your dad. We were neighbors for a long time.
Sending my condolences to the Williams family at this difficult time. Sorry for your loss . Growing up in Colborne, we all knew the Williams family. The house, orchard, and the cottage and all fun we had there . The Colborne arena with the boys playing hockey, Mr. Williams as the coach. Gwen at figure skating. So many memories of both your parents . Hold all your wonderful memories close to your heart ❤️
I was so sad to hear of the passing of the patriarch of the Williams family. Pete was a neighbour, school mate and most of all a friend. We enjoyed many activities, dances at Colborne High, cadets and lunch on the canons in the park. Later snowmobile racing in the orchards. Memories are for always, keep them close. In sympathy. Joy
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
My condolences to all of Pete Williams family .
Our deepest condolences to the Williams family.Ron,Jane,Jessica and Jim sorry for your loss our thoughts and prayers are with you.
So sorry to see Peter go. A very well admired and respected guy.
Sincere condolences to the entire Williams family. Sending hugs, strength and prayers.
Our condolences go out to the Williams family. Please know we’re thinking about you.
Jane, Ron and family…..so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. He was such a nice man. Our sincere condolences, Paul and Vicki
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Bereaved Families of Ontario - Durham
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
Sending our condolences to the Williams family. Always enjoyed meeting up with Pete. Real gentleman who took great care of his family and supported his community especially the hockey teams.
Sorry for your loss he was a good man and will be missed RIP sending prays to the family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family..lots of good memories with the Williams family during our hockey playing years..please accept our sincere condolences..Rosemary and Jamie Taylor..
Deepest condolences to the family of Pete Williams. He was a dear, life long friend and hockey buddy to my father, Doc Smith. Yes, those Lambeth years were indeed memorable. Rest in peace, Pete.
Condolences to the Williams family, friends, and community of Pete’s passing.
To the williams family we are so sorry for your loss, sincere condolences to all RIP Pete 🙏 Marvin Penny Day and family
Sending out our most heartfelt condolences to all of Mr Williams family, may he rest peacefully Barb and Cyril murphy
Our condolences to Pete and Julie and all of the Williams family.
To Gwen, Jane, Ian, Peter, John and your families. Our deepest condolences on the loss of Pete Sr. He always had kind words for us when we visited him. He still knew who we were at our last visit. Pete was the personification of, “Take care of your family and your family will take care of you.” Rest easy Pete. Love and God Blessings Norma and Brian Gough
I was saddened to hear of the passing of my boyhood friend and former ("English Town") Port Hope neighbour. We were both part of the "english town" (law abiding) gang, enjoying many kid activities. We began playing hockey with the Port Hope Maple Leaf pee wees and in later years played for the Port Hope Panthers. (I have photographs of both teams thanks to Lillian). Peter played defence and few opposing players got by him without suffering the consequences. We nicknamed him "Bruiser". We lost contact when his family moved to Colborne in the 1950s but renewed our friendship 40+ years later. I would occasionally visit him at the orchard and exchanged a few stories of earlier years. My condolences to the Williams' family. RIP Peter, a life well lived. Don Bourne
Our most sincere condolences to the entire Williams family💐 in the loss of your Dad/Poppy. The legacy of family love & work ethic has been past down to all the generations. Rest in Peace Pete🙏 Lorraine & John
Sincere condolences to all of the Williams family. Pete was one of a kind and I am sure you will cherish all the memories you have. When you hear one of his favourite songs, you will think of him and know he is watching over you. Keep your memories in your heart and he will always be with you.
Bill and I extend our most sincere condolences to the Williams family at this sad time. We have many fond memories of times spent with Pete and Lil at the hockey arena with the Goodrtimers hockey team, the frequent after game house parties and at many community events. A life well lived and a family he was so proud of. Rest in Peace good friend.
My sincere condolences to the Williams family. I sure have great memories of the days in Lambeth. One of the best areas to play hide and seek 😎 Take good care … Pete was a beauty ! Lou
My deepest condolences. I am fortunate to have some really good memories of Pete and of all the Williams family May he rest in peace.
Pete and his family were wonderful friends to our family — Doc and Betty Smith of Lambeth. I have so many great memories of the times we spent together at the hunting lodge near Bancroft. We truly had some unforgettable fun. Rest in peace, Pete. You were always 100% Dave Smith
Eric and I are sending our deepest condolences to your entire family. We hope your memories will help to soften the pain of his loss in the days to come. Sincerely Eric and Tracey Sheldrick
Wib and I offer our deepest condolences to the families
My sincerest condolences to the Williams family during this difficult time. Holding you all in my thoughts.
My sincere condolences to the Williams family. I knew Pete a long time so my thoughts are with you. Neil Fiddick
So very sorry for your loss. May you find strength in all the many memories. You are in our thoughts and prayers ❤️
So very sorry for your loss. May you find strength in all the many memories. You are in our thoughts and prayers ❤️
Our sincere condolences 💐 to the Williams family on the loss of your Dad and Poppy. May your memories help you to find peace and comfort in this sad time and cherish them forever ! RIP Pete Dana and Janice ❤️
My condolences 💐 to the Williams’ families on the loss of Pete.
What a Beauty, Cheers Pete. Original Goodtimer HOF
Ian, Gwen, Peter, Jane, Willy and families, please accept my condolences on the loss of your beloved father. What can I say that over the years you don't know and might just bring a smile to your face. Maybe dandelion wine and flying records! Your dad will be a part of my cherished memories and please cherish all of your incredible memories. Keep the puck on the ice and your feet on the dance floor Pete!
Please accept our deepest condolences to the Williams families. Thinking of each and everyone during this difficult time. Cherish the memories. Brian and Tracy
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Love John&Amy Johnny and Olivia
Another good one taken. All our love and thoughts to the family.
Sending our deepest condolences to everyone. Pete was a wonderful man and we were so fortunate to know him. He leaves an incredible legacy.
Sending my condolences to all the Williams family. Thinking of you all. Rest in peace Pete.
My sincere condolences to the Williams family.
Sending our deepest sympathies on the loss of your Dad and Poppy. May your many memories help you all through these difficult days. Sandra and Rick
My sincerest condolences to the Williams families. I remember Pete as a kind, gentle carring man. RIP Pete.
My sincere condolences to all the Williams families. Pete will be missed by all. Treasure your memories. Janet
Condolences to the whole family at this time Pete made many memories with you to keep in your hearts and pass on for generations . Many Blessings to each of you.
Ian. Pete John, and Gwen and families. I am so sorry for your loss. Cherish all your memories and embrace each other at this difficult time.
Condolences to all of Pete's family in the loss of their beloved, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Rest peacefully in paradise
My condolences to all the Williams family. Many memories of Pete and Lil during my life from babysitting their children to partying with them in later years. Always had a warm welcome when ever I saw him. RIP Pete. You are one of the great memories I have of living in Colborne. Sincerely, Ann
Heartfelt Condolences to all of the Williams Family! Big shoes to fill for sure! The torch has been passed! Thinking of you at this time.
My deepest sympathy on the your loss. May your many years of memories give you comfort in the days ahead.
Our deepest condolences to the entire family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.