For over 35 years, Peter regularly donated to the work of Uniting (formerly through Wesley Mission in Victoria) with the aim of helping people in their time of need – all while enduring his own challenges.
“He talked a lot about (Uniting) and helping the less fortunate,” says Peter’s niece, Jane.
“He grew up during the Great Depression and Second World War and the family struggled.
“He knew what it was like to go without. And he suffered significant mental health issues until the day he died. He suffered terribly, so he empathised with people who struggle to get by in life.”
Peter passed away in August 2020 at the age of 93. In 1994, he confirmed a gift in his Will to Uniting.
“He was a very generous man,” says Jane.
“He never married or had children. But he loved his family dearly. Family was everything to him.
“He loved spending time with his nieces and nephews and their children.
“Peter loved a family celebration. He was always there to celebrate birthdays, Christmas and Easter. And he was obsessed with his birthday. We always celebrated his birthday with him.”
The youngest of four children, Peter lived most of his life in the inner Melbourne suburb of Kew. He studied at Trinity Grammar and then Melbourne University, where he completed a Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1948.
In 1950 he started a career at the Commonwealth Public Service, which spanned 39 years.
An avid gardener, Peter had a love for native plants.
“He liked to keep himself busy through his many hobbies,” says Jane.
“He enjoyed gardening, tennis, community theatre, physical fitness and nutrition.
“He kept himself very fit and was passionate about exercise and healthy eating.”
Peter enjoyed attending Uniting supporter luncheons, receiving Christmas and birthday cards, and looked forward to his visits from the team, where they shared stories of the difference his contributions were making.
He also liked to keep himself informed about Uniting’s work by reading annual reports and newsletters.
“He supported numerous (community service) organisations that help people doing it tough,” says Jane.
“We’re proud of the legacy he has left.”
Because Peter left a gift in his Will for Uniting, his legacy is helping individuals and families in crisis to access practical support.
For more information about leaving a gift in your Will, visit unitingvictas.org.au/gift-in-will
