Peter Douglas Canfield

Peter’s early childhood was spent in Rock Springs, Wyoming, where some of his most cherished memories were made alongside his dad in the oil fields. He spent his teenage years in Orange County, California, where he met his best friend, Wes. Their friendship, built on loyalty, laughter, and shared memories, remained strong throughout Peter’s life.

At the young age of 19, Peter proudly enlisted in the United States Army, serving his country from 1971 to 1976 as an Engineer Equipment Mechanic. His military journey took him to several notable locations, including Fort Belvoir, Virginia; West Point, New York; and Presidio in San Francisco, California. While stationed at Fort Belvoir in 1971, Peter met Phyllis, his first wife and his lifelong companion. They shared a love full of firsts, rooted in family, new adventures, and a joy of building a life side by side.

After his honorable discharge, Peter and Phyllis moved to Limon, Colorado, where they welcomed their two children, Andrew and Crystina. Over the years Peter and his family lived in many places before finally settling in Spokane, Washington, in 1992—a place he would call home for the remainder of his life. In his later years, he met his wife, Shari, with whom he shared companionship. Shari encouraged him to see life through a new light, fostering growth both in mind and spirit.

Peter was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Nadine Canfield, and his brother, Alan Canfield.

He leaves behind a legacy of love through his wife, Shari; his lifelong companion, Phyllis; his daughter, Crystina, and her children Angelo, Aijia, Ahnyka, and Izavaylen; his son, Andrew, and his children Kai, Kaja, Koa, and Kaeda; his siblings Leslie, Darrell, Celia, Tony, Rodney and Patra; and his dear friend Wes.

Peter had a heart for creativity and connection. He loved music of all kinds, art, photography, dancing, and being the life of the party. A writer at heart, Peter expressed himself through joke books, poetry, and an autobiography. He enjoyed playing pool, competing in tournaments, and spending time at the table with friends and foes alike, often earning a reputation as a bit of a pool shark. He had a gift for making others laugh and was never afraid to go for the shock factor—in such a way only Peter could pull off. Known for his bold, over-the-top style, he could often be found wearing his beloved Jerry Garcia shirts and ties, always topped off with a hat that matched his unmistakable personality.

Above all else, Peter deeply loved his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His faith was central to his life, and he found a true home and extended family at his church, The Gathering House, where he was known, welcomed, and loved.

Funeral services will be held on March 13, 2026, at Ball & Dodd Funeral Home in Spokane, Washington. Burial will follow the same day at Mountain View Cemetery in Davenport, Washington.

If you were to ask Peter, he would simply smile and say, “My life was totally groooovvy, dude!” He will be remembered with love, gratitude, and countless stories and memories shared among family and friends, his memory living on in the hearts—and laughter—of all who knew him.

Go with God and yol bosun!