Contributions to the tribute of Terrance Dale Petkau

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Tuesday, July 18, 2023

I met Terry while working on the rebuild and renovation of commercial office space, which became Habitat for Humanity Canada's new offices in Toronto. I volunteered to apply my handyman skills and electrical wiring knowledge, and stayed on full-time as a core team member and assistant to the site foreman. My willingness to follow instructions, learn new skills, apply my knowledge and share with other volunteers, was noted. A couple of weeks after I had started working on the site, Terry returned from Waterloo to check up on the renovation progress. After being introduced to our crew, he took me aside to thank me for my dedication and work. Thanks to Terry's support and encouragement, I remained a full-time crew member until the completion of the project. Terry's hands-on, multi-tasking lead-by-example approach motivated everyone who worked with him. I am proud to have helped him remove ceiling tiles, organize a line of people to remove demo materials down 3 flights of stairs, spend many evenings to meet schedule deadlines, share on garbage removal duties, etc. While we were eating our submarine sandwiches during one of many dinner breaks, Terry had told me that he had worked on a Global Village build in Africa. To his astonishment, Brad Pitt dropped by to get his hands dirty. Terry's work with Jimmy Carter, Global Village and Habitat for Humanity Canada has inspired celebrities, dignitaries and thousands of volunteers. My sincere condolences to the family and to all who knew and admired Terry. Every time I strap on my tool belt, I think of Terry. He will be missed.

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John Mavrak posted a condolence

Friday, May 5, 2023

I met Terry in the 1990's when I was consulting with Habitat for Humanity Canada in a fundraising capacity. I believe Terry joined Habitat shortly after I started working with them. Since Terry was involved in Gifts-in-kind for the various builds, we formed a quick and collaborative professional relationship that grew into a friendship. My first recollection of Terry is that upon meeting him, I thought to myself, "That guy has got to be one of the nicest human beings I've ever met!" That opinion never changed. Terry was the definition of a gentleman. Polite, kind, thoughtful and professional. There's a huge hole in the fabric of the universe with Terry's departure, that can never be filled. My sincere condolences to the family and to anyone who knew and admired Terry. He is and will continue to be missed. Regards, John Mavrak

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David Beckerson lit a candle

Wednesday, May 3, 2023

Many fond memories .. Great life experiences together .. David Beckerson

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Sandy Voth Naruzny donated to HABITAT HUMANITY CANADA HABITAT POUR LHUMANITÉ CANADA

Wednesday, April 19, 2023

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David Cox posted a condolence

Monday, February 20, 2023

Our friendship began in Charlotte, North Carolina, where we met while working on local Habitat for Humanity projects. It would be strengthened while swinging hammers together on Ed Schreyer HFH projects in Canada. Thanks to President and Mrs Carter, we could always plan on having a meal together in the food tent or off by ourselves at a nearby restaurant. Letters and emails helped to keep us connected in between HFH projects. Not bad eh for a guy from Canada and one from the USA (Michigan). The foundation of our friendship was more than giving of ourselves through volunteer work, it was built upon our foundation of both being Christians, and being God’s hands in the world. We were looking forward to getting together again for this year’s Carter Work Project which will be in Charlotte. If I am accepted to be one of the volunteers, I am sure that there will be some moments of tears as I think of this very special man while swinging my hammer. DG Cox

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Joanna Pyszka posted a condolence

Sunday, February 12, 2023

Audrey, I’m so sorry about your loss. Please accept my deepest condolences. Joanna Pyszka

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Michele McMaster lit a candle

Friday, January 20, 2023

It has taken a while to find the words to post about Terry. His passing was such a sorrow. I had the pleasure of working with him for the last four months of his life. He was so enthusiastic about the plans we had for our new team, and eager to get going with new approaches to building homes and helping people. He handled his horrible diagnosis with grace and courage. I am so glad I got to work with “Mr. Habitat,” albeit, briefly. Michele McMaster Vice President, Housing & Community Strategy Habitat Canada

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Brian and Isabelle Hanna pledged to donate to HABITAT HUMANITY CANADA HABITAT POUR LHUMANITÉ CANADA

Friday, January 13, 2023

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Dennis and Katie Hard Harder posted a condolence

Thursday, January 12, 2023

Audrey, please accept our condolences on the loss of your dear husband Terry. From reading the obituary he sounds like he was a remarkable person who was devoted and passionate about humanitarian causes. May you sense God's peace and comfort as you mourn his loss. - Katie and Dennis Harder

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jake buhler posted a condolence

Wednesday, January 11, 2023

For Audrey and family: Audrey, we are saddened by the news that your dear partner has died. When Alfred Lord Tennyson's dear friend, Halem, died, he wrote that epic poem, In Memorium. One poignant line reads, " 'Tis better to have loved and died than never to have loved at all" We believe that Terry loved much. Jake (Louise) Buhler, Saskatoon

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Tom Thiessen posted a condolence

Tuesday, January 10, 2023

My condolences to Audrey, Tyler, Evan, Aunt Aggie and the whole family! Terry was truly a great Man! He was so giving, so kind, so humble and yet so great, a very loving man! I'm so very, very sorry for your loss, and now heavan has gained another Saint! You can be so proud of Terry, truly a life well lived! I was so privileged to grow up with Terry, my cousin, and truly one of my best friends! We had a great connection for 67 years. We were born the same year, and we spent many of our young years living up the street for each other. I was privileged to have him as my best man and to be his best man when we both were getting married! Even though we didn't live in the same postal code we were always very close. It was special to be fly to Ontario to go and see Terry one last time on December 10th.Terry smiled and gave the thumbs up as I shared stories of our many experiences together. I also shared with him how many blessings he had bestowed upon so many people, like giving blood 150 times, through Habitat for Humanity, how many people he helped. Even sharing a kidney with his daughter-in-law. Terry was never wealthy, but he was wealthy in spirit, caring, giving and love! Terry loved our Lord and heavenly Father, A good and faithful servant! It really breaks my heart to write this, I've really been struggling with writing this and processing our loss of Terry. I've been and will continue praying for the whole family, especially for Audrey, Tyler, Evan!

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Connie Costa posted a condolence

Monday, January 9, 2023

I am deeply sadden and my heart is heavy as I write this. Over the years, I felt a very close connection with Terry as a professional and friend. He was more than just our customer, he was an advocate for WSPS and a well respected individual that made a difference in our community and the world. He was an amazing person and I will miss him. My condolences to his family and friends.

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Leory and Carol Shantz pledged to donate to HABITAT HUMANITY CANADA HABITAT POUR LHUMANITÉ CANADA

Sunday, January 8, 2023

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Gary Gravelle donated to HABITAT HUMANITY CANADA HABITAT POUR LHUMANITÉ CANADA

Saturday, January 7, 2023

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Annette Verschuren donated to HABITAT HUMANITY CANADA HABITAT POUR LHUMANITÉ CANADA

Friday, January 6, 2023

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Barry Medlock posted a condolence

Thursday, January 5, 2023

I am so saddened to hear of Terry's passing. Working along side this Happy, Loving, Welcoming, Knowledgeable, man was inspiring in itself. It was a great experience to be in his presence, listening and learning for my 7 1/2 years at Habitat for Humanity. My sincere condolences to Audrey and the entire family.

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Kathryn Fair posted a condolence

Thursday, January 5, 2023

My deepest condolences to Terry's family and friends. I will remember Terry as a kind, intelligent, thoughtful, hard working, friendly and a true gentleman. There was a sense of calmness and steadiness about Terry that was very reassuring. Habitat for Humanity was blessed that he chose to dedicate his skills and abilities to support the mission. Thank you Terry, you made the world a better place. Kathryn Fair, Habitat Hamilton.

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H John Hollands donated to HABITAT HUMANITY CANADA HABITAT POUR LHUMANITÉ CANADA

Tuesday, January 3, 2023

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Kristine Dearlove posted a condolence

Tuesday, January 3, 2023

It is hard to believe that I am sitting at my desk working at Habitat with the knowledge that Terry isn't sitting somewhere, doing everything he can to further our mission. He was one of those special men - thoughtful, committed, and genuine. He truly believed in what we do here at Habitat - it seemed as if this was more than a job to him, it was a calling, a way to have true meaningful impact each day. Thank you for sharing Terry with us. He was an inspiration to so many, and I will cherish the moments of conversations I've had with him over the years.

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CAROLYN WITZKE posted a condolence

Sunday, January 1, 2023

Terry will be missed so much at Habitat Canada. I have been struggling to put 20+ yrs of memories into words, but always with a hint of a smile, because they are such good memories! We worked on so many varying projects together over the years, from Ed Schreyer Work Projects when he first started (I was so grateful he came), to just being part of everything great that Habitat Canada has done over the years... Terry's impact was tremendous. But mostly, Terry impacted everyone around him with his optimism, faith and hope - always onwards and upwards! To his family, especially Audrey, thank you for sharing Terry, a precious gift. May God comfort you and give you strength in the days and months ahead. Carolyn and Hans Witzke

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Mary Ann and Hugo Boschmann posted a condolence

Sunday, January 1, 2023

While we never had the privilege to meet or travel with Terry, we can understand that he and Audrey made a perfect couple who by their lives and personalities made the world a better place. Our sincere sympathy goes to Audrey and their family as they grieve his absence and celebrate the life he lived. Hugo and Mary Ann Boschmann (TM Ireland 2022 tour)

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Sarah Varley posted a condolence

Saturday, December 31, 2022

Terry was a kind and generous soul taken from this world much too soon. Sending my condolences and thinking of your family at this difficult time. Sarah Varley, Habitat Canada

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Shirley and Fred posted a condolence

Friday, December 30, 2022

We are so sorry to hear of Terry’s passing. Our hearts hurt for you Audrey, your children, and grandchildren whom he loved so much! Terry was such a passionate man and it showed in his smile, his care for others, and his work. We pray you find peace through the love of family and friends. Sending love and hugs. Fred and Shirley Redekop

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Kelly King posted a condolence

Thursday, December 29, 2022

A wonderful individual who truly embodied the values of Habitat, sharing his passion & joy with everyone he met. He will be missed.

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Dennis & Lenore Dueck posted a condolence

Thursday, December 29, 2022

Dear Audrey, Our hearts break for you and for your lovely family - such a huge loss for you, as well as for Habitat for Humanity and his many friends and colleagues. He will be so missed. Terry was a great guy - any times spent with Terry and you were wonderful times for which we are grateful. We also admired and appreciated the many “good” works Terry accomplished in his lifetime. We pray for you as you learn to live with your new reality. We will be in touch. With sympathy and deep caring, Dennis & Lenore Dueck

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Dennis & Lenore Dueck Posted Dec 29, 2022 at 2:05 PM

I am wishing for this to be sent to the family

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Susan Enns posted a condolence

Wednesday, December 28, 2022

Audrey, my sincere condolences on the loss of Terry. Praying you will feel God's comfort and strength as you walk this path.

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Nancy Totzke pledged to donate to HABITAT HUMANITY CANADA HABITAT POUR LHUMANITÉ CANADA

Wednesday, December 28, 2022

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Ralph and Cindy Jeanes posted a condolence

Tuesday, December 27, 2022

We are saddened to hear of Terry's death. We were neighbours at Treetops for a number of years and enjoyed many driveway conversations with him. And we cannot forget the many times he cycled past our home with a wave and a smile. As well, I served a term on the board of directors with Terry. His advice, common sense and humour were wonderful contributions to the Treetops community. Our condolences to his family. Ralph and Cindy Jeanes

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Florence Riehl posted a condolence

Tuesday, December 27, 2022

Dear Audrey, My sincere condolences to you and your family on the death of Terry I well remember our Christmas Markets Danube River cruise. It was cold, but much enjoymentvisiting the different ports. Terry was a light of inspiration on the tour. May God's arms embrace you with His Peace and Love.

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Greg Fryer posted a condolence

Tuesday, December 27, 2022

Dear Audrey and Family, Terry has left an incredible legacy of service, love and kindness. Our affiliate has benefited greatly from his leadership over the years and in particular leading a Hammer of Hope ride raising funds for our 2014 Build. May you take comfort in knowing how he has enriched the lives of so many individuals. Grace and peace to each of you. Greg Fryer, Habitat Grey Bruce

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Elliot & Helen Williamson pledged to donate to HABITAT HUMANITY WATERLOO REGION INC

Tuesday, December 27, 2022

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Joe & Barb Zimmerman posted a condolence

Tuesday, December 27, 2022

Audrey & family, We were sorry to read of Terry's passing. Such a vibrant, servant leader with Audrey, of our trip to New Zealand/Australia a few years ago. Several times, Terry was quietly troubleshooting minor issues that cropped up on our trip of a lifetime. We enjoyed hearing of his heart for Habitat for Humanity. May our God of all comfort, comfort you as only He can. John 14 Joe & Barb Zimmerman

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Joseph Zimmerman donated to HABITAT HUMANITY CANADA HABITAT POUR LHUMANITÉ CANADA

Tuesday, December 27, 2022

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Susan Meche donated to HABITAT HUMANITY CANADA HABITAT POUR LHUMANITÉ CANADA

Tuesday, December 27, 2022

Audrey and family -- We were saddened to learn of Terry's passing. John and I had the GREAT pleasure of volunteering with him at the Habitat for Humanity 2004 Jimmy & Roslyn Carter Work project in Puebla, Mexico -- he was a wonderful house leader, so full of knowledge and grace!! We kept in touch with Terry over the years as we continued to serve HFH in Texas and around the world sharing our experiences with him via email -- always hoping we'd see him on a Global Village build. His smile was magnetic, his laugher contagious, and his kindness inspiring!! We'll miss our Canada Habitat connection friend. May you know God's peace and comfort as each of you lean on Him for strength and guidance.

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Doreen Janzen posted a condolence

Monday, December 26, 2022

Audrey. With sincere sympathy on the loss of your husband Terry. Although I didn't know him, you have befriended me through some travel connections and so my heart goes out to you as you grieve his loss, but at the same time celebrate the person that he was. May your memories sustain you in the days and years ahead. Doreen Janzen

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Andy and Lorraine Dunne posted a condolence

Monday, December 26, 2022

Dear Audrey, boys and family, We were also saddened and shocked to hear of Terry’s passing. Terry was a bright light indeed and I felt honoured to have him as my cousin. He was always kind, thoughtful and we could count on him greeting us with that big warm smile at Petkau gatherings. During childhood, I would watch him have a riot playing hockey in his backyard rink or just laughing and having fun on the farm with my brothers. Many warm memories. Our thoughts also go out to Aunt Aggie, siblings and family. Wishing you all peace, comfort, courage and lots of love during this time of sorrow. Love and prayers, Andy and Lorraine Dunne

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Reinhard Penner posted a condolence

Monday, December 26, 2022

Audrey and family, Our condolences to you and family. Although we didn't personally know Terry, we feel for the loss you must be experiencing. My you be comforted by the memories of experiences you had together. Reinhard and Christine Penner

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Mark and Janice Rodgers posted a condolence

Monday, December 26, 2022

Dear Audrey and family, There are no words to adequately express the depth of our sadness upon hearing the news of Terry's passing. Terry was undeniably one of the finest human beings we have ever known. It was a pleasure working with him in various capacities for over 18 years, and throughout those years the single greatest joy was the privilege of calling him a friend. His sincere and abundant love for people made him unique. Indeed, he made everyone around him a better person – we witnessed it often, and we were among those he impacted. He somehow had the ability to light up a room with his presence and make everyone feel special, feel valued, feel loved. We know at his core his faith was his guiding light, a light which he generously shared with others, but not so much in word as in action; which, in the end, endures far longer. Terry has craved out an immeasurable legacy of love, faith, and kindness, and he has touched the lives of more individuals than he could ever have imagined. Our sincere condolences to all of you. We cannot begin to imagine the sorrow you must feel. Yet may you find comfort and strength in knowing that Terry was treasured by so many, now and always. Mark and Janice Rodgers

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Sam Purdy posted a condolence

Monday, December 26, 2022

I am extremely saddened to hear of Terry’s passing. I had the opportunity to work with Terry at Habitat for Humanity Canada for two years and to get to know the compassionate and caring person that he was, always putting the needs of other before his own. The world has lost a truly remarkable individual. Rest In Peace Terry. Sam Purdy

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Tom and Rebecca Yoder Neufeld posted a condolence

Sunday, December 25, 2022

Dear Audrey and family, We were shocked and saddened at the news of Terry's passing. We can't possibly imagine the sense of loss you are experiencing. May God grant a special measure of grace and comfort in this season. Terry's life enriched not only yours immeasurably, but those of his coworkers and countless others for whom he was instrumental in giving a home. His work will live on and serve as a powerful memorial. We are deeply grateful for having known him and his generous and hospitable spirit. Be embraced by God's care in the arms of family and friends, Tom and Rebecca Yoder Neufeld

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Art Kroeker posted a condolence

Sunday, December 25, 2022

Dear Audrey , boys and families, The Kroeker and Voth family relationship goes back a long, long way and during that time we watched the children grow up and form relationships. They were good people and good relationships but yours, with Terry, always seemed to be a particularly sparkly one.and I am sure the memories you made during your time together will help you through this difficult time. You don't get over it -- you through it. We wish you God's Peace and Comfort. Art & Wilma Kroeker

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Gordon Mackay posted a condolence

Sunday, December 25, 2022

I was deeply saddened by hearing of Terry's passing. I first met Terry when I was working HFHC (Habitat for Humanity Canada) in Waterloo and Terry walked into the office and pitched us the idea of "Hammer for Hope". The rest is history. He got hired shortly afterwards and Terry certainly helped make the world a better place. He and I had many HFHC adventures together across Canada including being invited guests at Workworth Pennetentiary! All in all Terry was in a class of his own. It was my honor to have known him. My condolences to Audrey and sons Tyler, Evan and their families. Gordon Mackay

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Gordon Mackay donated to HABITAT HUMANITY CANADA HABITAT POUR LHUMANITÉ CANADA

Sunday, December 25, 2022

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Harry and Lorna Froese posted a condolence

Sunday, December 25, 2022

We are so saddened to hear the terry has died.we wish you,Audrey and family much comfort and peace in these days . We cherish the wonderful visit we had with you and terry this past fall.

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Annette Verschuren posted a condolence

Sunday, December 25, 2022

I loved working with Terry on the the builds. He lifted us up and that smile - well that was special. His faith guided him and he represented the best in Christians. His spirit will live on. Audrey and family it’s hard to lose Terry so early. You must draw on all those wonderful memories as you move forward. Annette Verschuren

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Brett Marchand posted a condolence

Sunday, December 25, 2022

I will miss Terry the Tiger! Terry and I met in 2004 at the Jimmy Carter Work Project in Puebla, Mexico, our first of many together. We were part of the Canadian contingent and roommates. Terry was so dedicated to getting our house done in time. He would be on the first bus every morning (and he wasn’t a house leader on this build) and take the last bus home each night. But he didn’t just work, he was always enthusiastically out for the dinners and evening’s festivities. I was very impressed with his work ethic and dedication, even if not happy about the lack of sleep I got as his “roomy.” I always loved to see Terry both at home and in far away places, helping families and advancing the Habitat mission. He was a man of purpose and he will be missed. Luckily the world is a better place because of his life!

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Tamara Kroeker posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Ode to Terry Let me count the ways I love my Uncle Ter- Bear Devastatingly handsome, witty and charming. Always curious and caring. Ready to laugh at any moment or jump into the next story - Uncle Brad Pitt been to visit lately? Next story or next adventure? - grab the bike and go - province to province if you can believe it! Looking out for others - always first Creating and imagining new things - the sky is the limit No eyes shines brighter - especially with a new idea in his mind Infectious energy, unlimited kindness, depth and understanding No one compares, no one comes close. I love my Uncle Terry. Love Tam

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Garen Martens posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Audrey - Eva and I are very sorry to hear of the passing of Terry. We are sorry that we were not able to travel with him. Your descriptions of Terry and the wonderful obituary paints a picture of a man whom we would have enjoyed to know as a friend. May God strengthen you and your family as you take this new journey. We hope to see you soon! Garen and Eva Martens

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Rachel and Mike Clark posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Dear Audrey and family-- Sorry to hear of the passing of Terry. It is a wonderful sweetness that he was a great part of your lives, and his persona will continue to encourage and bless you, Wishing you peace also at this time of sorrow. Mike and Rachel Clark

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Morgan Regehr donated to HABITAT HUMANITY CANADA HABITAT POUR LHUMANITÉ CANADA

Saturday, December 24, 2022

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Ene Underwood (CEO, Habitat for Humanity GTA) posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

There will never be enough words to describe Terry Petkau and what he meant to countless people. I will be forever grateful for having met Terry and have been yet another person to benefit from his infinite positivity and constant authenticity. Terry was a humble giant within the Habitat for Humanity community who will never be forgotten and always remembered with gratitude and admiration. Extending my condolences to all of Terry's family and close friends.

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Lois K Bare posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Dear Audrey, We are saddened to learn that your husband has died. It is clear from the obituary that he lived a full and meaningful life. Please accept our sympathy to you and your entire family. With prayers for all of you, Jim and Lois Bare

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Mike and Lois Massanari posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Dear Audrey, We are so sad to hear of your tragic loss. We met Terry in 2014 on our very first trip with TourMagination to Scandinavia, but feel like we got to know him better through his obituary. He truly was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, volunteer and friend! Our prayers are with you and your family during this time of grieving and remembering. Blessings, Mike and Lois Massanari

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Christy Sennema posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Hugs, prayers and love for Terry's family at this time. He was an amazing person and loved you all so much. It will be a big adjustment for everyone. -Christy Sennema

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Susan Enns posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Dear Audrey we were so sad to hear of Terrys passing! Our hearts ache for you. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Fred & Susan Enns

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Julia Deans donated to HABITAT HUMANITY CANADA HABITAT POUR LHUMANITÉ CANADA

Saturday, December 24, 2022

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Julia Deans posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

My heart goes out to Audrey and all of Terry's family and friends at this very sad time. Terry was one of the first people to welcome me to Habitat for Humanity Canada three years ago, giving me a hammer pin and earrings he had saved from a special build. He was always so generous in sharing his experience and insights with me and everyone on our team, and imbued us with his eternal optimism and determination to create safe and affordable homes for more people. Terry touched the lives of many thousands of people in Canada and around the world in an enduring way. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit and ambition to serve lives on through us all. Julia Julia Deans President & CEO Habitat for Humanity Canada

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Dennis Penner donated to HABITAT HUMANITY CANADA HABITAT POUR LHUMANITÉ CANADA

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Hi, Audrey, I am so sorry to hear the sad news about Terry. Please accept my sincere condolences to yuo and your family Dennis Penner

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Susan Fish posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Dear Audrey - I’m shocked and so saddened to hear of Terry’s death. He was profoundly good and kind and caring and lighthearted. As you and your family know far better than me. I am so sorry and am praying for you all in this enormous loss. Susan Fish

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Jane Hilliard & Paul Berg-Dick posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Dear Audrey and family, our condolences to you on the passing of Terry. Praying for peace and comfort as you remember and grieve. Sincerely, Jane Hilliard and Paul Berg-Dick

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Harry and Nancy Showalter posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

We were so sorry to hear of your husband's passing, Audrey. We didn't know him, but remember fondly our time with you and Tourmagination in the Netherlands. Our thoughts are with you as you process and journey this part of life. Harry and Nancy Showalter

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Peter Russell posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Condolences on the passing of Terry. Terry was a true friend and enthusiastic member of the 6 Willow Building Committee at Waterpark Place. Peter Russell

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Don & Kae Neufeld posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

I had the priviledge of interacting with Terry on Habitat for Humanity work for many years. Kae and I also had the great pleasure of travelling to Antarctica with Terry and Audry. I appreciated him in so many ways including his cheerful approach to everything and his competency in a large number of areas. I saw him last in 2017 when he worked with Jimmy Carter in Edmonton. Kae and I offer our sincere condolences to Audrey and Terry's family. Don & Kae Neufeld

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Marzi and Paul Meadows lit a candle

Saturday, December 24, 2022

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John Psutka posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Terry was an amazing person. His ability to motivate with a positive and reassuring style inspired all of us who had the privilege and opportunity to work with him. He will be missed by so many of the people he cared for and shared his abilities and talents with. A true humanitarian who put the needs of others first. Thanks Terry...God Bless.

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David Hughes uploaded photo(s)

Saturday, December 24, 2022

What devastating news, and especially at this time of year. My most sincere condolences to Audrey, his family and closest friends. Although Terry and I had lost touch over the years, when I recall my time with Habitat I think of (and miss) Terry's friendship, kindness, generosity and servant leadership. He taught me how to build homes, better relationships, and a stronger organization. And it was his vision and leadership that helped spark off the Global Village program, gave opportunity for many Canadian's to serve through the Jimmy Carter Work Projects and other volunteer activities, and he championed a "green" building program that was well ahead of its time. He was a gentle soul, and a 'north star' for me and others. For that and so much more, he will be missed. David Hughes

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Karen Coviello posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Dear Audrey and family, Terry’s generosity of spirit, time, and love have impacted so many, for so long. Thank you for sharing him with all of us, in his extended Habitat family. My deepest condolences to you all - I am counting my blessings to have known him and worked with him. May his love live on, within all of us. Karen Coviello

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Sarah Austin posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Sending such love and condolences to Terry's family and especially his wonderful grandchildren, whom he loved so much. I said this in the card for Terry, but it bears repeating -- he was such a light in this dark world. He always had a kind word for everyone. Terry was warm, generous and passionate about Habitat's work. He will be greatly missed. I will miss him.

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Joshua Benard donated to HABITAT HUMANITY CANADA HABITAT POUR LHUMANITÉ CANADA

Saturday, December 24, 2022

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Wayne Dempsey lit a candle

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Ah yes, my good friend Terry. He came to my retirement party in October and we had a brief chat. He was always a warm gentle man who has done so much for Habitat . He was such an inspiration to me and to everyone he interacted with. He will be sadly missed. Wayne Dempsey Habitat GTA

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Karen Reimer posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

I have many fond memories of my cousin Terry as he was best friends with my brothers Tom and Rick. I’ll never forget how excited Tom and Terry were to build their tree fort. Already building when he was young! Unfortunately they both fell out of their fort and broke their arms. Terry was a lot of fun, as were all his siblings. He will be greatly missed. Our deepest sympathies to Aunt Aggie and all Terry’s brothers and sisters, and especially to Audrey and her family. Love, Karen Thiessen Reimer from California

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Rob Voisin posted a condolence

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Dear Audrey and family, This will come as no surprise to any of you but Terry easily represents a man who had a life changing impact on me. Meeting him at an age in my life where learning to become the man I am today was in full swing. Terry taught me about faith, friendships, dedication, passion, fatherhood, work ethic, kindness, philanthropy.......the list goes on and on. I have always told him that it took me close to a full year of knowing him to finally believe that a person could be as kind, caring and generous as he was. Working along side him and being his friend for over 15 years is a gift I will cherish forever. I am sorry for the sake of humanity that we lost such a great person so early. Miss you already Terry. Thank you for being you!

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Louise Malhotra uploaded photo(s)

Saturday, December 24, 2022

I met Terry when I joined Habitat Canada in 2016 and knew right away he was my type of person - so very warm and kind and fun loving!! You just felt at ease with him, and knew he was a special person. That smile and sparkle! I remember a picnic on Toronto Island and we had a scavenger hunt competition and he was as into it as anyone - gentle teaser and competitive streak too. He made such an impact and will be greatly missed. An honour to have known him and will carry his legacy of giving and warmth to everyone I meet. Picture below from Carter Work Project in summer 2017 in Edmonton.

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Roslyn Nairn posted a condolence

Friday, December 23, 2022

Dear Audrey,Tyler,Evan & families: I am so so saddened to hear of Terry’s passing. Although we only met a few times over the years, I was always so impressed with his deep commitment to Habitat and then to give of himself by donating a kidney to his daughter-in-law law only showed what a very very special man he was. My sincere condolences to you all . I am sure your family’s strong ties to your faith will give you much strength in the coming weeks ahead Sincerely Roslyn Nairn

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Art & Barb Janzen uploaded photo(s)

Friday, December 23, 2022

Terry was someone who walked into a room with his whole face smiling, an inspiring friend, and a good soul. This pic was a highlight for Art who joined Terry on a leg of his last Canadian Hammer of Hope ride. What a thrill to ride alongside him and hear the many stories of his life with Habitat for Humanity. We cherish the time we had with him and Audrey and the dinner party group with Ed, Karen, Gary, and Sharon. We grieve with the Petkau family, we are saddened by your loss. Ride on Terry!

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Gary Gravelle uploaded photo(s)

Friday, December 23, 2022

It is with profound sadness that we learned of Terry’s passing. We met Terry and Audrey through Ed and Karen Nowak, our neighbors and we formed a dinner group along with Art and Barb Janzen. We enjoyed many a fabulous meal and delightful company over a 10 year period. The photo was taken in 2012 at the Janzens with Art taking the pic. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Audrey and the entire family.

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Ed and Karen Nowak uploaded photo(s)

Friday, December 23, 2022

Terry was a special friend. In May of this year we took a road trip to Leamington to check out the Habitat Build there. This duplex was built using a 3D concrete printer. Terry is inspecting the project.

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lorrie shantz posted a condolence

Friday, December 23, 2022

Audrey, Tyler and Evan the world is the less and even more so, your personal lives. We wish you well as you continue on with living in the absence of Terry. Know that you are surrounded by a community of people who wish to help you through this profoundly difficult time and who share at least a portion of your sorrow. Sincerely, Lorrie Shantz and Ross Willard

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Lorrie Shantz donated to HABITAT HUMANITY CANADA HABITAT POUR LHUMANITÉ CANADA

Friday, December 23, 2022

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The family of Terrance Dale Petkau uploaded a photo

Friday, December 23, 2022

Terrance Dale "Terry" Petkau

1955 - 2022