Peter Stephen Allport Webster

Peter Webster

March 27, 1944 - September 16, 2023

Violist and Personnel Manager, National Arts Centre Orchestra

Surrounded by the love of his family, Peter Webster passed away peacefully at his Garden Terrace residence on Saturday, September 16, 2023.

Beloved husband of 56 years to Sandra (née Wyness), father to Gordon (Katie) and Michael (Jessica). Brother to Barrie (Phyllis) and Sylvia (Edwin). Grandfather to Marcus, Charlie, Brynn, and Clara. Uncle to Behan (Cheryl-Ann), Glenys (Paul), Jill, Jen (Cam) and Mike (Christine). Great Uncle to Oscar, Max, Kalli, Caius, Mia, Addie, Everett, Elsa, Easton, & Edison.

Peter was born in North Vancouver to parents Beatrice “Betty” (Allport) and Godfrey Stephen “Steve” Webster. During his early childhood, the family moved to Kelowna, BC, which would remain Peter’s home throughout his growing up years. Music was always an integral part of the family life - no surprise that Peter studied piano, reaching an accomplished level, and viola. Forming a string quartet which met weekly and would perform throughout the Okanagan Valley, Peter’s exploration of, and immersion in, the vast string repertoire would lay the foundation for a lifetime of musical growth, discovery, and expertise.

Upon graduating from Kelowna High School, Peter moved to Vancouver, embarking on a B. Mus. degree program at the University of British Columbia, where he met his future wife Sandra. During these years of study, Peter played with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and the CBC Radio Orchestra. He spent two summers studying viola in Aspen, Colorado, with renowned musicians, and worked as a steward on the Prince George cruise ship from Vancouver to Alaska. 

Peter and Sandra married in 1967. In 1969, he attended the summer session at Indiana University, where he later completed his M. Mus. degree in viola performance under the tutelage of David Dawson.

In 1972, Peter won a position in the viola section of the National Arts Centre Orchestra and relocated to Ottawa. He would continue to perform with the NACO for 41 years and would serve as the orchestra’s Personnel Manager for 35 of those years.

In 1976, Peter co-founded the Thirteen Strings Chamber Orchestra, along with Brian Law, John Gomez, and John Gazsi.

Peter contributed to concert programming and acted as principal violist, personnel manager, and librarian for this vibrant group from its inception until 2016.

Peter’s creative and artistic gifts extended to his passion for photography and gardening. His energy and zest for life was boundless! He was a devoted family man who loved nature, the outdoors, and water sports. He had a sense of wonder about the world and its cultures that he imparted to his children.

On tour with the NACO, he developed a reputation as an avid explorer, hiker (“Mountain Goat”), and lover of food, including a dedication to sampling local cuisine (no matter how spicy!).

Peter’s charismatic presence was infectious. He exuded warmth and kindness, which along with his gentle spirit, helped anyone he encountered feel at ease. His sharp wit and unique sense of humour would often leave family and friends in stitches.

Peter’s persistence, loyalty, sense of duty, and decency remain at the centre of the legacy he passes along to his sons and their respective families. He remains deeply cherished as a husband and father who will be greatly missed.

The family wishes to thank the staff and caregivers at Garden Terrace for their loving care and support during Peter’s residence, especially for their superior palliative care.

There will be a funeral service on Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at Tubman’s Garden Chapel, 3440 Richmond Rd, Nepean. Visitation at 1pm. Service at 2pm, followed by reception. A livestream link is available for the service.

A Celebration of Life to take place in 2024, details TBD.

Donations in Peter’s memory to Thirteen Strings, Orkidstra, and Parkinson Canada Foundation will be gratefully appreciated.