McFarlane, Peter

In loving memory of Peter McFarlane.

In his 94th year, Peter passed away peacefully into the presence of his Lord and Saviour on Sunday morning, November 2nd, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Predeceased by Audrey McFarlane (Bender), his loving wife of 72 years, best friend, and soulmate. Devoted father of Sandra Champion (late Sandy), Gayle Russell, Brian McFarlane (Sharon), and Nancy Mawhinney (Kirk). Loving grandfather of Michael (Amilynn), Jeremy, Jennifer, Trevor, Kyle, Dawson, Cora, Noah, and Abby; great grandfather of Victoria, Makena, Grayson, Cameron, and Alyssa. Dear brother of Jack (Elsie), Marguerite (Ivan), brother-in-law of Lyle (Edith), Laverne (Dorothy), Lois (Ross) – all predeceased. Visitation will be held at Simcoe Funeral Home, 38 James Street East, Orillia on Saturday November 8th, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. until the funeral service in the chapel at 12:00 noon, reception to follow. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Long Branch Baptist Church, Toronto or Cornerstone Baptist Church, Orillia. Messages of condolence are welcomed at www.simcoefuneralhome.ca

The service will be live streamed, please use the following link to preregister for the service.

https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=bfc58cdd-0173-4667-a75b-22c94de85795

A look into Peter’s life…

Peter McFarlane was born on January 3, 1932, in Toronto, Ontario, to Daisy and Peter McFarlane. He had an older brother, John (known to many as Jack), and a younger sister, Marguerite. The McFarlane family made their home in the St. Clair and Dufferin area.

At just five years old, Peter faced one of the greatest challenges of his life when he contracted polio. His body stiffened, and he was unable to stand or walk, relying on his hands and knees to move about. Through the loving care and tireless massages of his mother, Grandma Scott, and Auntie Ella, Peter made a remarkable recovery strengthening his character that would define him throughout his life.

Music became a lifelong passion for Peter. As a young boy, he played in the Toronto School Band and sang with the St. James Boys Cathedral Choir. His love of music deepened as he became involved at The People’s Church in Toronto—shaping his faith and his future.

The McFarlane family’s livelihood came from their beloved business, McFarlane’s Bakery, founded by Peter’s father, who had trained as a baker in Scotland before immigrating to Canada in 1923. All three children helped after school. At just 14, Peter left school to work full-time with his parents, mastering the bakery trade. His father sold the original St. Clair bakery in 1952 and two years later, with their mother, they purchased a bakery on The Queensway in Etobicoke. The brothers were the bakers, and their father was the wedding cake decorator. McFarlane’s Bakery quickly earned a reputation for its quality and family run business.

During his teenage years, Peter made the most important decision of his life—accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and Saviour while attending The People’s Church. It was there that he met Audrey, the love of his life. They married on July 26, 1952, beginning a lifelong partnership built on love and faith.

In the early years of their marriage, Peter and Audrey both worked at the bakery. Many friends and family enjoyed those sweet treats from the bakeshop! They purchased their first home in Etobicoke, where they welcomed their first three children—Sandra, Gayle, and Brian. In 1958, the family began attending Long Branch Baptist Church, a place that became central to their lives for decades.

Peter was blessed with many gifts and used them faithfully. Over the years, he served as a deacon, elder, small group leader, choir director, chairman of the house committee and more. Peter also participated in building projects with the Baptist Builders. His love for music continued through The McFarlane Trio and The Melodaires Quintet. The Melodaires sang across southern Ontario for over 20 years sharing messages of faith, hope, and love.

In 1958, Peter and his brother purchased a family cottage in Muskoka—a real fixer upper and the beginning of many decades of cherished memories. In 1964, they sold the bakery business and tried their hand at construction. In 1965, Peter began working for Bowes Food Company where he worked for over 30 years. In 1967, the family moved to Mississauga and welcomed Nancy in 1968.

Peter and Audrey were known for their hospitality. They opened their home to family, friends, and church gatherings. Whether hosting celebrations or summer visitors to the cottage, they welcomed all with warmth, laughter, and plenty of good food.

The cottage was Peter’s favourite place. He loved enjoying the beauty of Lake Muskoka, tinkering with many projects, and tending to his bonfire.

Peter deeply cherished his role as a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He delighted in his grandchildren—Michael, Jeremy, Jennifer, Trevor, Kyle, Dawson, Cora, Noah, and Abby—and his great-grandchildren—Victoria, Makena, Grayson, Cameron, and Alyssa. Whether it was school projects, vacations, boat rides, or eating ice cream, he enjoyed spending time sharing his wisdom and love.

In 2021, Peter and Audrey moved to Severn to live with Nancy, Kirk, and their family. Peter continued to stay active, caring for Audrey, his best friend and soulmate, until her passing in January 2025. Even after her passing, he remained devoted to his family and found new fellowship at Cornerstone Baptist Church.

Peter was a true gentleman—a man of integrity, humility, and faith. He had a sweet, gentle spirit and was always willing to lend a helping hand. During his final days, he often spoke of the kindness and compassion he received at Soldiers Memorial Hospital. His family is deeply grateful for the care provided by Dr. Aaron Barnett and his team, and for the prayers and love of so many family and friends. Peter’s legacy of love, faith, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.