The oldest of 15 siblings, Pete lived with his family in Waldheim, Sask., and then Vauxhall, Alta., where he finished his schooling early to work with his dad on the family farm. He committed his life to the Lord, was baptized, attended Coaldale (Alta.) Bible School, and sang in many church choirs and quartets. He married Anna Born in 1952 and they welcomed 5 daughters and 3 sons. They lived in Vauxhall, Swift Current, Calgary, Strathmore, and again, Calgary. Pete loved to laugh, telling jokes all his life to anyone who would listen. The Petkau home was constantly hosting friends and family for Sunday lunches, faspa, or a night’s stay. Pete loved to play his harmonica with Ann and their family. He liked driving, working on trucks, watching hockey and wrestling, and playing baseball. Later, he absorbed himself in Christian music and books. As spouses, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren joined the family, many meals and laughs continued around the large table. Pete and Ann could be seen in their bedroom, nightly, on their knees praying for their family and friends throughout the world. Pete worked as a farmer, mechanic, truck driver, owner of Acorn Transport, furniture salesman, and before retiring, as custodian for Dalhousie Community Church. Pete volunteered as an usher at Highland MB Church, and as a coordinator/team leader for the Calgary Gideon church ministries, speaking in churches and delivering many Gideon hotel Bibles and the youth New Testaments throughout Calgary. Many restaurant staff who served him were also given a New Testament or asked to say a prayer for the meal. Pete loved sharing with people about the Lord. After Ann’s passing, Pete married Margaret Friesen in 2001. They lived in Calgary, close to Dalhousie Church, working in the church and serving with the Gideons. They enjoyed meeting family and friends at coffee shops or Boston Pizza. Their last 3 years were together in Auburn Heights Retirement Residence, where they made a big impact on many people for the Lord, with their love and caring hearts. The jokes and laughs continued as they spent their time with many of the residents, friends, and staff. Pete and Marg were faithful prayer warriors, often letting family “head home” at night so they would not miss their devotional time. Pete was predeceased by his parents, Anna, his son Donald, and his siblings Elizabeth and Abram.
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