Obituary of Colin Iveson Peel
It is with great sadness that the family of Colin Iveson Peel announce his passing which occurred on Sunday, August 10th, 2025, at the Saint John Regional Hospital, Saint John, NB. Born in Easton-in-Gordano, UK, on March 9, 1936, he was the son of the late Leslie and Gladys (Watts) Peel.
Colin immigrated to Canada in 1950, graduating high school early and going to work on a farm. He loved learning and figuring out how things worked - tinkering with bikes, machines and buildings in some capacity for most of his life. He was immensely proud of his work and loved his job as a power engineer and later plant manager in the dairy industry, closing out his career in management at Baxter Foods in Saint John.
He loved soccer, cricket, rugby, hockey, horseback riding - basically all sports - and music. He especially loved anything his kids were involved in.
If you knew Colin at all, you know he loved people. He was a chatty, friendly guy and always had time to ask how you were doing and have a genuine conversation. While it could easily take 3 hours to do a 20 minute grocery trip, he was also the most dedicated dad. Always present for the big and the small stuff. At the rink, he’d be right behind the net keeping track of Cal’s saves instead of chatting with the other parents. At the soccer field, he was completely focused on the game and couldn’t be distracted - often standing off to the side of the other parents so he could watch Sarah sprint up and down the field.
“Mr. Peel” was a well-loved coach, teacher, mentor and supporter to many through the Hampton Soccer Club, the School Reading Program, and Scouts.
He loved nature and the outdoors, spending a good chunk of the year canoeing, hiking and camping. He loved animals and was rarely seen without a dog or a horse at his heels or in his arms. His “retirement” consisted of buying a hobby farm and moving out of town to play farmer to an ever-growing troop of sheep, chickens, horses, dogs, a pig and many other wonderful animals who adored him. His happiest days were spent walking the farm or reading a good book snuggled up by the fire with Jen and their collection of 4-legged foot warmers.
He didn’t live a flashy life, but he sure lived a good one. He was so deeply loved and will be missed beyond measure.
The family would also like to take a moment to say a heart felt thank you to the incredible staff at the Regional, Saint Joe’s and especially the kind and caring folks at KV Extramural. You made a hard time so much easier. Thank you.
Colin is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Jennifer (Spiece) Peel of Passekeag, NB; children: Callum Peel (Hayley) of Edmonton, AB and Sarah Peel (Kyle) of Moncton, NB; cherished granddaughter Hannah; as well as many extended family and friends. In addition to his parents, Colin was predeceased by his brothers Alan and Brian Peel.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Reid’s Funeral Home (506-832-5541), 1063 Main Street, Hampton, NB and will be held privately. Donations in the memory of Colin may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences to the family and memorial donations may be made through ReidsFH.com.
