My father embodies the spirit of “natural curiosity” in all that he does. He learned to fly an airplane (a Tiger Moth biplane) before he got his driver’s licence. He was repairing his mother’s car engine before he finished grammar school.

Peter has an independent spirit and an unparalleled drive to find out how things work; from small engines to electronics, from aviation to biochemistry, he would never shy away from asking questions until he understood. He put his knowledge to practical use through his careers in aviation and control systems, and as a civilian engineer at the Department of National Defence in Ottawa.

As a father and role model to his children, he was always eager to dive in and help us appreciate the real-world applications of things we learned in school. He continues to be generous with his time and has been mentoring grandchildren, neighbours and friends in everything from math homework to home and car repairs.

Dad, you’ve provided just the right amount of support and encouragement to help those close to you apply the same native curiosity to our daily challenges that you have had for everything you put your hand to. This is the essence of all learning and guides to a greater appreciation of what we can do when we put our minds to it.

Happy Father’s Day, dad!

By Glenn, Ottawa, Ontario