Peter Perepelkin
July 9, 1941 – November 28, 2014
The work is done. The business is closed. The boss has left the building. Suddenly on November 28, 2014, during his visit with his stepson’s family for American Thanksgiving in Detroit, Michigan, Peter Perepelkin passed away and became a bright star in the firmament. He is survived by his wife and partner Joy Osgood; sister Evelyn (Allan Markin) of Penticton; sister Teresa (Brent Verigin) of Aldergrove; nephew Quentin Markin (Heather McCormick) of Sydney, Australia; niece Allison Markin of Penticton; nephew Brenden Verigin of Aldergrove; stepson Chris Osgood (Jenna) and grandchildren Mackenzie, Sydney, and Max of Detroit, Michigan; stepson Mitch (Melody) Osgood of Medicine Hat. Peter was predeceased by his wife Florence (Bloodoff) and children Larissa and Keith. Peter grew up in Winlaw, BC. After graduating from high school in Slocan City, he attended UBC, receiving his Bachelor of Education degree. Following a period of teaching at the Midway High School, he purchased Clark’s Clothing Store in Grand Forks. Peter’s strong business sense resulted in the creation of His ‘N Her Fashions, an anchor store in downtown Grand Forks for 40 years. Across the street he opened Sunlite Travel, serving local and regional clients successfully for many years. Peter was a world traveler, but he never lost his strong connections with his community. Peter was a proud champion of Grand Forks, promoting the city and its beautiful surroundings at every opportunity. And the opportunities were many. He was active in the travel industry, attending many conferences, where he was an enthusiastic participant in planning and strategic activities. He was a highly respected member of the Retail Council of BC, serving a term as president. He served many years on the Grand Forks Credit Union Board of Directors, and he was instrumental in creating the “Sasha” brand for Grand Forks, which prompted thousands of travellers to stop in Grand Forks for a world-renowned bowl of “Grand Forks Borscht”.
Peter was an active member of the Grand Forks Rotary Club, where he was an enthusiastic supporter of Rotary’s principle of “Service above Self”. Above all, Peter’s values were rooted in family. Despite several tragic events in his own family, he never wavered from his dedication to his immediate and extended families. He was generous with his love and support, and was always forthcoming with encouragement and enthusiastic optimism. He was loyal to family and friends; he was a man you could count on for judicious and wise opinions and advice. He had a big heart. According to Peter’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no funeral service. A Celebration of Life will take place in the spring, his favourite season. A date in May will be announced later. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, or to a charity of your choice. Rest in peace, Peter, and may “choirs of angels” sing you into eternity. You will be in our hearts forever.