Carl Hjeronymus Petersen

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Carl in Victoria, BC. Carl was predeceased by Florence, his wife of 54 years, as well as his 13 older siblings. Born in Alberta, Carl was raised on a large farm during the depression, learning the value of hard work, repairing what you have and being happy with little. This resulted in his enduring generosity, sense of humor and love of adventure.

Carl met Florence when his family moved from Alberta to Cloverdale, BC in the late 1940’s. Florence, aka “Laurie”, caught his eye and the two courted through their teen years, marrying in 1958.

Sergeant Petersen proudly served his country in the Royal Canadian Air Force for 26 years. Many a story came out of his short time spent in France as a NATO peacekeeper. Carl retired from military service in 1976 and began a 16-year career with BC Transit driving double decker bus tours and Victoria city transit bus. Carl loved to give those who visited private grand circle tours of Victoria. He enjoyed showing off his city and reciting Victoria’s unique features from memory. Carl actively served others through Friendship Community Church. He blessed many by repairing cars, mowing lawns, or moving furniture. Carl also enjoyed his work with Neighbourlink, a charitable organization that assisted families in need with donations of furniture and repaired appliances. After the organization was dissolved, Carl made it his personal mission to collect furniture and distribute it to those in need. Carl was an enthusiastic storyteller and would regale guests with tales of his military service, or his time as a private pilot and flight instructor. He also loved playing card games, board games or shooting pool with any willing parties.

The family is very grateful to Island Health staff who took excellent care of Carl in recent years as his needs changed during the challenges of a global pandemic.

He will be deeply missed by all that were blessed to know him. Carl is survived by his children, Karen (John), Gordon (Susan), Janice (Nigel), Shelley (Brent) and Linda, as well as his many beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.firstmemorialsaanich.com for the Petersen family.