Dr. Peter Walkovich, MDCM

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Peter Walkovich after a brief illness. Devoted and loving husband of 65 years to Millie (nee Sawchyn), loving father to Paul (Sue), Michael (Teresa) and Kathryn (Kevin), and cherished Didi (grandfather) to seven princesses, Laura, Jessica, Erin, Emily, Kristen, Alexa and Makayla. Dear brother to Olesia (David).

Peter was born and raised in Montreal to Hnat and Antonina Walkovich (nee Kuleba), who journeyed to Canada from Ukraine in 1928 and 1930 respectively. His parents instilled in their son a strong work ethic and high level of integrity. Peter had many academic achievements in his youth and a love for classical music. He earned a music degree in violin, achieving solo performer and first violinist for the Montreal Junior Symphony.

Peter’s passion from a young age was to care for and look after others. He studied Math and Physics and was then thrilled to be accepted to McGill University Faculty of Medicine under scholarship where he graduated in 1959 at the age of 24. A few days after graduation, Peter proposed to Millie, the love of his life, and they were married in Toronto in 1960. Peter completed a further 8 years of extensive surgical training with residencies at Vancouver General Hospital, London West Minister Hospital, and Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, ultimately obtaining his FRCSC and FACS board certification from Canada and the United States. In 1968 Peter joined Scarborough Centenary Hospital, now known as Scarborough Health Network Centenary Hospital, and practiced as a well-respected General Surgeon for 36 years.

Outside of his medical practice, Peter was active at St. Anne’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church for 57 years and served terms as Treasurer and President. Many enjoyable memories were made with family and friends at the family cottage. Peter was an avid model train collector and sports fan, but most of all enjoyed supporting and cheering on his children and grandchildren as they competed in high-level hockey, diving, and gymnastics. Peter was also a master of the Sunday New York Times crossword puzzle which was always completed in pen.

The Walkovich family is grateful for the care and compassion shown to Peter in his final days at Centenary Hospital. Visitation will be held at Giffen-Mack Funeral Home, 4115 Lawrence Avenue East, West Hill, Thursday, July 17th, from 6-8 p.m. A Panachyda service will be held on Thursday, July 17th, at 7 p.m. at the funeral home. The funeral will take place on Friday, July 18th, at 9:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment to follow at Sanctuary Park Cemetery, 1567 Royal York Road, Etobicoke.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Scarborough Health Network Centenary Hospital or to St. Anne’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church, 525 Morrish Road, Scarborough, ON M1C 3R8, would be much appreciated.