Peter Thorvald Knudsen has come to the end of one incredible journey, only to begin the next.

Peter chose to leave this world with dignity and on his own terms through the MAID program surrounded by his family in his beautiful back yard garden under the compassionate guidance of Dr. Moorhouse.

His health declined substantially over the past weeks following his diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. Although his physical strength was leaving his body and his pain was increasing, his mind remained strong right to the very end. His family and friends are at peace knowing that he was comfortable and confident in his decision, and that he is now at rest.

The legacy Peter leaves behind in his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all those people he touched is a testament to the life he lived.

Peter was born and raised in Pass Lake, Ontario. As a young teenager, he worked in the carpentry trade with his grandfather, building and renovating many of the cottages at Silver Islet. At the age of 15, he moved to the “big city” of Port Arthur to attend high school, where his entrepreneurial spirit began to take shape.

He worked his way through high school, cleaning and performing chores for his host family. Eventually, he graduated and talked his way into working on the boats with the Seafarers Union—one year before he was legally old enough to do so. Peter went on to work in a variety of roles, including managing the Millionaire Restaurant and working as a banker with Imperial Bank, where he met Helen. He eventually found his way into the industrial supply business.

In 1971, Peter founded his “practice business,” Pet World and Poodle Salon, after the family was unable to find a groomer for their new dog. Like everything Peter did, the business thrived. It grew into much more than a pet store and grooming salon, expanding to include boutique items, décor, and gifts.

In 1973, Peter ventured out on his own once again, founding Equipment World Inc. with a small loan from a couple of friends and a dream for success. He was immensely proud to watch the business grow and eventually expand to serve all of Northern Ontario and beyond, under his direction and with the support of the strong TEAM he assembled. Somewhere along the way, he also founded Toros Truck & Trailer Supply, which he operated for several years.

Peter was also well known for the incredible landscaping and backyard garden at their Oliver Road home. It was a place shared generously with many over the years, including through participation in the Charity Garden Tour and countless spontaneous visits. The invitation was always open.

Peter’s generosity, philanthropy, and commitment to his community will be remembered by many. Over the years, he served on numerous boards and was involved with social, charitable, and community organizations, including the Jaycees, Chamber of Commerce, Shelter House, Masons, Pass Lake Historical Society, Scandinavian House Society, and Northern Ontario Angel Investors, just to name a few.

A man of many talents, passions, and disciplines, it would take pages to describe the many lives Peter lived and the people he touched. He was a Carpenter, Gardener, Artist, Handyman, Real Estate Investor, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, Biker, Classic Car Collector, Traveler, Pickleball Player, Cyclist, Shriner, Santa Claus, Mentor—and so much more.

Peter is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Helen; his three sons, Lyle (Tarja), Scott (Marilin), and Jay; his grandchildren, Lia (Mike) and Kai (Meaghan); and his great-grandchildren, Luuka and Kaarlo. He is also survived by his four younger siblings, Elsie, Ellen, Nancy, and Paul, and their families.

There are far too many people to thank individually for the tremendous outpouring of messages, visits, food deliveries, love, and support shown during Peter’s illness. You know who you are, and we thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.

We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to Dr. Trochimchuk GP and to the staff of the Thunder Bay Regional Cancer Centre, including Drs. Holzapfel, Ramchandar, and Bezanson, as well as the professional oncology nursing staff, for the compassionate and dedicated care they provided to Peter.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, September 10, from 2:00–5:00 p.m with presentations at 3:00 at the Valhalla Inn Ballroom.

For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation (Northern Cancer Fund), the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority, or a charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to the Sargent & Son Funeral Chapel, 21 N. Court Street.