Johan Viggo Petersen

Elsket og savnet [Loved and missed]

With love in our hearts, we share the passing of our dear husband, father, and grandfather, Johan Petersen, on 14 October 2022, peacefully at home.

Beloved husband and best friend to Renée, Papa to Kirsten (Justin) and Christian (Aaron), and proud Bedstefar to Charlotte and Sebastian. Cherished son of Eiler and Odile Petersen, brother to Lise and Peter. His nicknames were many: Jani, Jopi, Papa Fix-it, The Great Dane, and Pack Leader.

Born to Danish parents in Portugal, Johan lived a vibrant and adventurous youth, exploring the splendid beaches and countryside of Portugal with his family and friends. Educated in Portugal, Denmark, and Switzerland, Johan came to Toronto in 1972 with only a suitcase and some cash in hand. Via a business introduction he met his future father-in-law, Frans (Lydie) Sayers and through Frans Johan met Renée in 1973. When Johan proposed to Renée, he said, “be prepared to move to other places in the world!”. They married in 1975 and 47 years later were still living in Toronto! Much to his chagrin (not a fan of Winter!), Johan still enjoyed 50 years living in Canada. He was an avid cyclist, walker, paddler, camper, sailor, cross-country skier, gardener, and MG enthusiast, and he enjoyed countless weekends with his favourite people at the family cottage. Johan loved nothing more than to plan their next trip, holiday, adventure, or drive.

Johan’s career in the food industry allowed ample opportunity to travel across North and South America, Europe, and Asia. His adventures were many, and often shared with his favourite travel partner - Renée. In retirement, they continued to travel, cottage, camp, and enjoy as much time together as they could.

Keen on motorcars from a young age, Johan defined the eras of his life by the cars he drove. He and Renée purchased their first MG in 1976 and joined the MG Car Club of Toronto. A pillar of the club for many decades, Johan was an active member and volunteer with the executive, planning countless events, drives, and socials with his friends in the MG community. There, he maintained his reputation as "The Great Dane" and "Pack Leader" - Johan always left on time. Many years later, Johan got his dream car, a 1961 MGA - resulting in a home renovation to accommodate both MGs in "Jopi's Garage".

With all things in his life, Johan devised a plan, and his approach to cancer was no different. He faced it with strength, dignity, and courage. The care and kindness shown to him while at Sunnybrook Hospital was exceptional.

His legacy is his family, his kindness, quick wit and sense of humour, and thoughtfulness of others. He loved a good pint of beer and always found the best fish and chips in town.

Johan was the glue of the family, a mentor, confidante and advisor, and a staunch believer in all things tradition. His friendship and advice are honoured and treasured by many.

A service and reception honouring his well-lived life will take place on November 4th at 2 pm at the Danish Lutheran Church of Toronto (where Johan and Renée were married) located at 72 Finch Ave W, North York.

For those unable to attend in person, a virtual option will be available. Please contact [email protected] for more information or with any questions.

In lieu flowers, donations to the Danish Lutheran Church of Toronto, the Sunnybrook Foundation, or the Movember Foundation would be kindly appreciated.