Hans-Peter Walter Merath

Beloved husband for 51 years to Rita (Schweizer), dedicated father to 3 children, Andreas (Kelly), Melissa (Will) and Marcel (Kirsty), and proud Opa to 7 grandchildren who will dearly miss him; Isabella, Abby, Hannah, Chloe, Aidan, Mattias and Klara.

It is hard to express in words how important Peter is to our family, and how much we will miss his laughter, sense of humour, storytelling, and smile.

Peter was devoted to and took great pride in his family. He was humble, thoughtful, strong in character, and always seemed to know the right thing to say and gave the best advice.

After family, Peter’s priority was German Football, following the Bundesliga and FC Bayern into his last days. He was passionate about many things, including travel, world events, history, and an avid reader.

Raised in post WWII Germany by his mother in the Stuttgart area, he formed his keen appreciation for the importance of family. As a young man he began an apprenticeship in transportation where he often said he learned many of the skills used over his career. He eventually moved to Freight Forwarding and started his life’s journey, working in the Netherlands, UK, France, Nigeria, Switzerland, and landing in Canada 1968.

Peter and Rita met in Toronto, Canada in 1970 and married in 1972. They would welcome 3 children who grew up to have the greatest respect for their parents. Children of a German (Schwabe) father and Swiss mother, they also learned respect for structure, hard work and not spending more than you have!

Peter’s work ethic helped him forge a successful career with Panalpina (47 years), mostly in Canada, and time in USA, and Switzerland. His colleagues remember him as a mentor and friend who was honest, loyal, generous of time, and supporting others in their career growth. His vision helped lead to success and expansion globally for the company.

In retirement Peter and Rita embarked on their next journey together, enjoying travel with friends; visiting Europe, the Arctic, Nepal, Africa, Asia, and all points in between. Hosting friends and family at “The Oasis” in Florida as an annual winter tradition and time for Opa and Oma to be with their grandchildren. Many games of mini golf were won and lost with Opa always being the cheering section for his grandchildren.

Peter, Dad, Opa, HP, Gunner…. We love you and will see you again.

The family would like to thank the staff of St. Michaels Hospital Emergency and Oncology for their care and compassion.

A private family ceremony has taken place. In memory of Peter contributions can be made to St. Michael’s Hospital (https://stmichaelsfoundation.com/ways-to-give ) (+1 416-864-5800) and The Princess Margaret Hospital (https://thepmcf.ca/donate/).