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Peter Bagan

October 18, 1936 ~ February 23, 2019

Peter Bagan

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Peter in Whitehorse, Yukon at the age of 82. 

Peter, the youngest of three sons, was born in Edson, Alberta, to Steven and Caroline Bagan.  He spent his early years going to school and exploring the outdoors of Luscar in the Coal Branch before the family moved to Edmonton where Peter finished high school at Jasper Place.  It was at a community dance that he met the love of his life Elsie Bilsky and they married in 1960.

Peter worked a variety of jobs: grocery administration, aircraft mechanic, ski patrol and instructor.  He joined Canadian National Telegraph in August 1958, and as a manager, was transferred from Edmonton to Dawson Creek, B.C. in 1963. 

Outside of work, Peter spent endless days with family and friends establishing the Dawson Creek Ski Hill and Golf Course, curling, playing ball, skiing, fishing and hunting.  Dawson Creek is also where their only child, Erin was born.

CNT became Canadian National and the family was transferred to Whitehorse, Yukon in 1971 where they resided in the CN housing compound at the top of Two Mile Hill. In 1976 they were transferred to Yellowknife, N.W.T., where they enjoyed 12 years, most notably with friends at their cabin on Prosperous Lake.

In 1984, CN, now NorthwesTel, transferred the family one last time back to Whitehorse and Peter retired in 1991 after 30+ years of service.

Post-retirement Peter loved picking berries, mushrooms and smoking salmon, travelling and spending time with family, friends and Max the cat on the waters of southeast Alaska on their boat Avalon Cay.  An original founding member of the secret society HMABA, Peter was well known for meeting people on the docks.  His outgoing nature, sense of humour and love of food, especially at Ukrainian Christmas, made him well known.

Peter leaves behind his wife of 59 years, Elsie, daughter Erin (Alan) and many nieces and nephews.  He is predeceased by his parents, and brothers Michael and Nestor.

Special thanks to Dr.’s Bousquet, Madlung, and Freeman, the staff at Ambulance Services, and nurses at WGH Medical Ward and Whistle Bend who looked after Peter so well.

A gathering for friends and family will be held in spring/summer 2019.

Comments (11)
  • 28 February 2019

    Love and miss you Daddy.

  • 1 March 2019

    Great people pass through your life. Peter (and Elsie) are those type of people. We met the Bagan’s while they were aboard Avalon Cay in Tenakee Springs back in July of 1995. They were so prepared for anything. A chance meeting creates a lifelong friendship. Who does not smile when they think of Peter? He brought laughter and love wherever he went and it truly affected the people he met on the way.
    I believe the greatest legacy a person can leave is a genuine impression those you meet during life’s amazing journey. Peter did that for me. I’m certain he did for you as well.
    Erin and Elsie, I extend my sincerest condolences – I am sorry for your loss. Wishing you strength and love.
    Perry Boeker
    Vancouver

  • 1 March 2019

    My heart is heavy. I have fond memories of time spent with Peter, and I am going to miss him!
    Love to Elsie, Erin and Al.

  • 1 March 2019

    Uncle Peter was one of the kindest men I knew. I have some fond memories spending time with my uncle. I know he will be missed by all of us and my thoughts are with Elsie and Erin.

  • 1 March 2019

    Peter, getting to know you has been a blessing that we will always treasure. Loved our weeks in Kelowna, your Ukrainian Christmas Dinners, spending time on Avalon Cay, you name it never a dull moment and always an adventure. You helped me catch my first fish, a memory I will always treasure. Having you for a brother-in law has been the best and so many memories will always be with me. You will be missed and another angel has their wings. Love and Hugs

  • 1 March 2019

    I’ll never forget our fishing trip, or your warm smile and the way you greeted me as “Piotr” with a laugh! You were the best Uncle Pete. Hope you’re catching 90 pounders up there in heaven and all the crab pots come up males.

  • 5 March 2019

    Yesterday, today and tomorrow I miss you. Your smile warms my heart and our love is everlasting. My hand in yours is forever. I love you.

    • 7 August 2019

      Dear Elsie, I am so sorry for your loss. I have just found this web page and read the obituary for Peter. My apologies for not knowing or contacting you sooner. Valerie

  • 7 March 2019

    We enjoyed Peter and Elsie’s company very much in Dawson Creek when they lived there. Thanks Peter for the volunteering you offered. Also we were honored to join them on the Avalon one summer.
    Hope your motoring on in a future waterway Peter.

  • 8 March 2019

    Elsie,Erin and Alan ,

    I am very saddened to hear of Peter’s passing .
    May the wonderful memories and love give you peace
    and strength at this difficult time .

    Much love to all
    Erika

  • 15 March 2019

    Old family friends must go away someday, but when it happens its always too soon. Peter was there, offering quiet concern during my childhood, I have never forgot. Thank you, Zena

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