Dr. Peter Paul Van Der Borch

Dr. Peter Van der Borch – (known to many as Peter Van)-began his next journey on August 24, 2014 surrounded by the 'love of his life”, longtime partner, best friend, confidante and advocate, Tina Colonnese, sister in law Catherine Gordey, and the loving family of caregivers at the VG hospital. Peter was born in Odenkirk, Netherlands, 1946. He was predeceased by his parents in 1953, and was lovingly raised by his aunt, and uncle, Mr. & Mrs. H. Van Zwol, Bible Hill, N.S. He maintained contact with his cousin Ibel Scammel, Truro, and her daughters Beth and Emily. He was predeceased by his wife Anna, 1982, and had no children. An academic achiever, Peter obtained 5 degrees, and wore a number of professional hats including science teacher, physiotherapist, and veterinarian. He had several lifelong passions that he shared with Tina – keeping fit (at the Dartmouth Sportsplex), working on lexicons, a love for the feline species, and discussions about anatomy, physiology, chemistry, art, social injustice, and travel. Peter was an obsessed man when it came to playing competitive bridge, and only missed a game when ill. A quiet, unassuming and gentle man, Peter's spirit will be firmly entrenched in the heart of his “princess” (as he called her) Tina. Words are so inadequate to describe the compassionate, loving care Peter received, and the amazing support provided to Tina on 7A. To his nurses Cathy Spanik, Lisa Stock, Mary Osmond, Shelley Macleod, Marlese Reid, Shelley McDonald, Nicole Phinney, Lyn Gillis; his doctors Dr. Erin Corsten, and Dr. Dave Depere; Social worker Andrew Comstock, and clerks Donna Colwell and Sharon Cameron, and volunteer Laurie, I can only offer my humble, heart felt gratitude on behalf of Peter and myself. Peter didn't want to forget Dr. Lucy Helyer, Marsha and Lee-Ann who always remembered that bridge meant so much to him; never forgetting to ensure appointments were scheduled around a hot bridge game. To his dear friends Chris Stewart, Peggy Terrio, and those he played with in bridge circles, thanks for keeping Peter on his toes. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pick of the litter (feline rescue) 388 Ridgevale Drive Bedford, NS B4A 2L7, [email protected]. Visitation will be 2-4pm Wednesday, August 27, 2014 in A. L. Mattatall Funeral Home, 217 Portland Street, Dartmouth. Private cremation. Interment West Branch cemetery, N.S., at a later date. God, in his infinite love, grace, and mercy granted Peter peace. To view or place an online message of condolence please visit www.mattatallfuneralhome.com