In Memory of Peter Veneman

August 5, 1965 - January 10, 2024

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dearly loved brother and friend Peter Veneman. Peter died peacefully on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, in St. Michael’s hospital at the age of 58. Born in Mississauga, he is predeceased by his parents Christa and Gunter, who met in Canada, after immigrating from their homeland of Germany. He leaves behind his brother Erik with wife Michelle, his nieces Maggie and Abbey, his step-nieces/nephews Steven, Chelsea and Cameron, his cats Tessa and Buddy, and many close friends whom he also considered family.

Peter was larger than life, in part due to the many hours he spent in the gym, but more importantly, because of his radiant personality. He had a way of bringing people together and surrounded himself with good people. One thing you could always count on when you saw him, was that he would give you a big, often sweaty, and usually shirtless hug, before introducing you to everyone he knew. This earned him the nickname of “Canadian Ambassador to Croatia” on a recent trip there.

Peter could light up the room with his smile. He had a childlike innocence that could simultaneously make you laugh and shake your head at whatever ridiculous story he shared with you. He never lost the positivity and playfulness that defined his personality.

Peter was up for anything, especially if it involved a dance floor, which is where he made so many of his friends. Adorned in his mother’s pearls he would dance and twirl up a storm. Peter always looked after his friends, if you needed water or gum Peter had you covered, but more importantly, Peter made everyone feel at home and protected.

Peter loved his cats, although he struggled with portion control in their diets. He collected gadgets, like his unicycle, though rarely learned how to use them. He was a self-described "big, gay, non-sports fan", but knew that “apparently sports are amazing.” He often relaxed too hard, and had broken chairs to prove it. He ate mountains of food, but then would gladly finish what you couldn't. He loved watching movies, especially animation, and he lived in shorty shorts and crew socks.

These are just some of the things that made Peter who he was, but more than anything what defined Peter was the way he loved the people he cared about. He lived life to the fullest and while he is gone too soon, he gave us a lifetime of memories that we will never forget. Thank you, Peter, for bringing exuberant amounts of joy and love into our lives every day.

In recognition of Peter's love of cats, his friends and family ask that in lieu of flowers, you may donate to the Toronto Humane Society.