James Peter Buell RCN, RNZN, CPE 1962-2026

Peter Buell passed away suddenly at home in Newfoundland—true to form, slipping his lines and heading out on his own terms.

Peter is survived by his wife and first mate Ginny, loving daughter Jessica, son Kris, and grandchildren Kael, Noelle, and Poppy. He also leaves behind his sister Lindsay (Chris), brothers Matt (Kapua) and Chris (Vanessa), cousin Mary Wells (Kevin) and a formidable crew of in-laws: Karen Garner (Scott), Rick Chamberlain, Tammy Croft (Mitch), Debbie Migay (Andrew), Stuart McGie (Sheryl), and Al Tychynski. Several nièces and nephews He shared a lifelong bond with his best friend and partner in early mischief, Craig Preece(Cathy) a friendship that endured long after the trouble-making years were over.

He was predeceased by his mother Mary Joanne Chrapko, stepfather Jerry Chrapko, and his father Jamie Buell—who, for better or worse, passed along the enduring (and occasionally questionable) loyalty to the Toronto Maple Leafs. His brother Paul , youngest brother Patrick and sister in law Donna.

Peter served with distinction as a naval officer in both the Royal Canadian Navy and the Royal New Zealand Navy, before coming ashore to a second career as Harbourmaster in New Zealand, overseeing ports in Christchurch, Tauranga, and Tairāwhiti Gisborne. He made a couple more stops along the way in the Arctic as the Assistant Director of Marine Services and from there he was the Maritime Director of the Great Lakes Marine School at Georgian College.   He knew his way around ships, harbours, and people, and took real pride in keeping things steady, safe, and moving as they should.

He loved the sea and the work that came with it—the quiet competence, the responsibility, and the rhythm of tides and traffic. He didn't make a fuss, didn't seek the spotlight, but those who knew him understood the depth of his experience and the steadiness he brought to everything he did.

Fair winds and following seas.