Peter Arthur MacLean

Peter Arthur MacLean, 64, of Margaretville, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on Friday, October 2, 2026. Born in Middleton, Peter was the son of the late Arthur and Hannah (Lytle) MacLean.

Peter was a deep and deliberate thinker who approached everything with patience and careful consideration. This was especially evident in his carpentry, where every project began with a plan carefully worked out on paper before he brought it to life. A true craftsman with an eye for detail, Peter took great pride in his work, which can be seen throughout the Valley and will stand as a testament to his skill for years to come.

Peter cherished his years in Elbow, Saskatchewan, where he formed lasting friendships with people who became like family. He loved the wide-open spaces and developed an interest in locksmithing and a passion for long-distance shooting. One of his proudest moments was hitting the end of a spray-paint can from 1,000 yards away—a story he never tired of sharing, always with the same excitement as the first time.

Family was at the heart of Peter’s life. He adored Ann, and after 38 years of marriage, he was still asking her for kisses right to the end. He loved being a father, teaching his sons and sharing his knowledge. He had a special way of making people feel loved and part of the family. He was proud to be a grandfather and took great joy in being Papa to his grandchildren.

Peter’s father, Arthur, and grandfather, Tom, were founding members of the Margaretville & District Volunteer Fire Department. Following in their footsteps, Peter became a third-generation firefighter, proudly serving his community for more than 30 years. His three sons continued the family tradition, becoming fourth-generation firefighters in Margaretville and other communities across the country.

Peter’s deep faith and love of God were central to his life. A longtime member of Margaretville Baptist Church, he served in various roles over the years and was a deacon at the time of his passing. During his years in Saskatchewan, he attended Bethel Lutheran Church in Elbow, where he especially treasured his Wednesday night Bible study group. He brought his natural curiosity to these gatherings, often asking questions and sharing perspectives that encouraged deeper discussion. He spoke fondly of the friendships he made there long after returning home. His faith remained steadfast throughout his illness, and he trusted in God’s plan without ever asking, “Why me?” His family finds comfort in knowing he is now in Heaven, whole and healthy, walking once again with his beloved dog, Nova, by his side.

Peter faced his cancer with remarkable courage. “It is what it is,” he would often say. But acceptance never meant giving up. He fought with everything he had for more time with his family, knowing there was still so much he wanted to share with them.

Peter is survived by his loving wife, Ann (Lightfoot); sons, Sam (Naomi) of Sackville, NB, Nikolas (Lucinda) of Warner, AB, and Nathan (Breanna) of Greenwood, NS; grandchildren, Ezra, Ezekiel, Miriam, Moriah, Elijah, Elyse, Brielle, and Macklin; sister, Margaret (Larry) Finley of Margaretville; brothers, Glenn (Debbie) of Margaretville and David (Jane) of Cambridge; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Peter’s family is deeply grateful for the love and support they received throughout his illness. To everyone who came to visit, whether from close to home or all the way from Saskatchewan, and to those who made sure meals were provided when they were needed most, thank you. Your kindness and generosity meant more than words can express.

The family would also like to recognize the healthcare professionals involved in Peter’s care, especially Dr. Fomani, Dr. J.P. McCarthy, and Dr. Surujballi. A special thank you to Janet Welton with Palliative Care, who was always just a text away, and to the many VON nurses who helped care for Peter at home. A heartfelt thank you also goes to EHS, especially Paramedic Outhouse and Paramedic Ben, whose kindness and compassion helped Peter through two particularly difficult experiences.

Visitation will be held from 6–8 p.m. on Friday, October 30, at Middleton Funeral Home, 398 Main Street. A Celebration of Life will take place at the funeral home at 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 31, 2026, officiated by Rev. Deann Carter. A reception will follow the service.

For those unable to attend in person, the livestream will begin at 1:55 p.m. and can be accessed through the Live Stream section of the Middleton Funeral Home website. A private interment will take place at Bay View Cemetery in Margaretville.

To help Peter’s family return home for his service, contributions may be made through Middleton Funeral Home. Condolences and memories may be shared through the funeral home’s online guestbook at www.middletonfuneralhome.com The family welcomes memories, stories, and photographs of Peter, which can be sent to petersmemorybook@gmail.com. These will be collected in a special book for his young grandchildren, so they will always have Papa with them.