709 466-3468
299 Memorial Drive

Peter Cleary October 4, 1944 - November 9, 2021

Passed peacefully away at the Dr. G. B. Cross Memorial Hospital, Clarenville on Tuesday, November 9, 2021, Peter Cleary of Clarenville, formerly of Come by Chance, age 77 years.  Predeceased by his parents Paul and Agnes Cleary, sister Kathleen, son Adrian John (A.J.). Left with fond and loving memories his wife Joan of 48 years; children: Paula (Michael), Matt (Donna), daughter in law Laura; grandchildren: Jacob, Emily, Adrienne, Olivia; sisters Margaret Ann (Gerry), Pauline (late Randy), and brother Michael (Carole); special lifelong friends John and Simone Joanisse and a large circle of family and friends.

Born in Montreal, Peter moved to Newfoundland in 1971, where he practiced medicine in the Come By Chance, Arnold’s Cove and Clarenville area for more than 40 years.  Peter embraced Newfoundland as his home and many who met him never knew he wasn’t a Newfoundlander.  When he wasn’t cross country skiing or hiking he could be found in the woods either looking for new trails or with his chainsaw cutting new ones.  His passion for the outdoors was both infectious and annoying, as he shared it with everyone whether they wanted to hear it or not.

There will be no visitations, cremation to take place. A memorial service will take place at a later date with interment at the Come by Chance Cemetery.  Due to the large number of family and friends the memorial service will be by invitation only.  In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Clarenville Nordic Ski Club – Junior Development Program.

Condolences(100)

  1. REPLY
    Debbie Williams says

    Always a gentleman. Condolences to the family.

    • REPLY
      Faye Andrews says

      So sorry to hear. I didn’t know him personally but heard so much about him thru Corwin. Well liked gentleman and avid skier. RIP.

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      Sean & Cathy Penney says

      Joan and family, so very sorry to hear of Peter’s passing. Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.

  2. REPLY
    Donna Burry says

    Joan and family, so sorry to hear of Peters passing. I’ll always remember him and his bag of homemade muffins in his lunch, when he came for his shifts in emergency. My condolences to you and your family.

  3. REPLY
    Cynthia Slade says

    My deepest condolences to the Cleary family.

    • REPLY
      Joy Beck. says

      To Joan and Family , we are so sorry to read about Dr. Cleary passing . Thinking of you all
      Joy and Scott

  4. REPLY
    Marilyn Granter (Harris) says

    I worked with Dr. Cleary at the Dr. GB Cross Memorial Emergency department for many years. He had a dry sense of humour that we all loved. Was compassionate and kind to every patient who graced our doors. His contributions to our town, patients, clients and friends will never be forgotten. It was an honour to work with you. RIP my dear friend. Condolences to Joan, kids and extended family and friends.

  5. REPLY
    Marie Upshall says

    Our sincere condolences to Joan Cleary and family. Dr Pete Cleary was very special to us. We will never forget him. Hold close the memories, hugs to you all. 🙏❤️
    Edna, Bill and Marie Upshall
    Chance Cove

  6. REPLY
    Carol Williams says

    So sorry to hear of Dr. Clears passing. Our deepest condolences to you and your family

  7. REPLY
    Marguerite says

    Sending our deepest condolences to Joan and all the family. Leroy & Marguerite Smith

  8. REPLY
    Thelma Williams says

    Our family doctor for many years. So sorry too hear of his passing, condolences too Joan and family.

  9. REPLY
    Calvin & Melvie says

    So very sorry to hear that Peter passed away.Heartfelt condolences to all of you.

    • REPLY
      Sharon Horan says

      Joan, Paula and Matt, I was saddened to hear of Dr Cleary”s passing. Over the years I ran into him many times and he was always so pleasant. I was grateful for his support of my practice, he sent me many patients over the years. Please accept my deepest condolences.

  10. REPLY
    Liam O'Brien says

    Pete Cleary was a brilliant, wise, and exceptional gentleman. We got to know Pete when we were kids through both our visits to see Uncle Bill and Aunt Regina Bailey but also their skiing adventures on and around the Buchans Plateau. I cannot overstate my respect for Pete and I’ve often thought he set an example for how we all should approach life. All this feels and falls flat in a way against the loss, grief and heartbreak. But it’s still important to say; just as it’s important to be grateful for great people in your life and to show support for their family and close friends when they face this. To Joan and the entire family – We’re grateful. We’ll never forget him. We’re praying and we’re thinking about you. You have our heartfelt hugs and condolences.

  11. REPLY
    Vicky Pond says

    So sorry to here if your loss. My sincere condolences

  12. REPLY
    jan barriault says

    omg, so shocked to hear this news,, have so many great memories of times we worked or partied together. great guy and awesome physician, condolences to Joan and all his family

  13. REPLY
    Clyde & Rowena Hapgood says

    We are very sorry to hear of Dr. Clearly “s passing… Our thoughts & prayers are with all the family Hugs to everyone.

  14. REPLY
    Mary Dwyer says

    Dear Joan and family; our deepest condolences on the loss of your husband, father, brother and friend. May he RIP.

  15. REPLY
    Carol(Wells) Peyton says

    Joan and family: So sorry to hear about your loved one’s passing. As you go through these difficult days, may your many precious memories as well as the love and support of family and friends be a source of strength and comfort. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Hugs .

  16. REPLY
    Stella combden says

    Joan, Paula & Matthew & Families,
    We are saddened to hear of the passing of your loved one. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
    Stella, Don & Brent

  17. REPLY
    Tish & Frank Trowbridge says

    Joan we are so sorry to hear of Dr.Cleary’s passing, we remember him well as he spent much time working at the clinic here in Arnold’s Cove. He sure loved the great outdoors and liked to say how good it was for our physical and mental health. Sincere condolences to you & your family. God Bless 🙏

  18. REPLY
    Margaret McCoil says

    Sorry to hear of Peter’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

  19. REPLY
    Daphne Smith says

    To Joan, Paula & Matt & extended family & friends.
    Condolences to all.
    Peter certainly has lift his mark on the outdoors of CbyC & C’ville.
    Thinkin of you all.

    Daphne & Bill

  20. REPLY
    Doreen & Jim Stryde says

    Joan, Paula, Matthew and families,
    Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. We have many fond memories of times spent with Peter. He lived his life to the fullest and was always there to lend a hand. He will be missed .

  21. REPLY
    Hayward Smith says

    I really liked Dr. Cleary and send condolences to Joan and Family. We shared a funny story that cannot be told here. He encouraged and promoted outdoor activity and I once remarked that the weather wasn`t fit to go outdoors to get a walk and quickly he remarked ” you never heard of a raincoat!!”

  22. REPLY
    Garry & Pauline Guy says

    Joan & family,
    So sorry for the lost of your precious loved one,
    Our family has many fond memories of Peter as he was our family Dr for many years. Many Thoughts & Prayers!
    .

  23. REPLY
    John & Brenda Ginn (Halifax) says

    So very sad to hear the news of Peter’s passing. I recall working with him in the ER at Clarenville in the early 1990’s. I always enjoyed listening to his experiences and obtaining his advice in primary care. Such a nice guy and entertaining. Brenda and I send our condolences to Joan and family.

  24. REPLY
    Brian Norman says

    Dr. Cleary introduced me to cross country skiing through the jack rabbit program he ran on the trails in Come by Chance he cut for skiing. His love of skiing was infectious and it resulted in my love of cross country skiing which I have passed on to my family.

  25. REPLY
    Sandra & Roy Fisher says

    Sincere condolences to Joan and all the family. Thinking of you at this difficult time.. .

  26. REPLY
    Jean Ryan says

    Forever grateful to have known him,condolences to his family.

  27. REPLY
    Sherry and Wayne Kelly says

    Sorry to hear of Peter passing our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

  28. REPLY
    Una King Johnson says

    Joan and family,
    So sorry to hear of Peter passing. Sincere condolences.

  29. REPLY
    Lloyd Button says

    Heartfelt condolences Joan from Shirley and I. Lloyd

  30. REPLY
    Judith O’Gay Malvern says

    Joan and family. Sending my condolences to you on the lost of Peter. He was such a kind soul and such a wonderful friend to Dad on and off the trails over so many years. I have great memories of so many ski trips with you and Peter. Now he can join his ski buddies on the trails in heaven. 🙏. Judith O’Gay Malvern

  31. REPLY
    Dot spurrell says

    Our condolence to Joan and his family he was always a very pleasant man

  32. REPLY
    Debbie Stacey says

    RIP Dr Cleary, you were a great physician always there for your patients. Thinking of all the family, hugs to all.

  33. REPLY
    Lisa Rice says

    I’m so sorry for your family’s loss. I have not seen Dr. Cleary in many years, but as to many, he was my childhood doctor. He was to the point and told it like it was. I am saddened by his passing and offer my thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.

  34. REPLY
    Charles McVicker says

    Joan,
    Most sincere condolences to you and the family. I will never forget my early years at G.B Cross and the practical wisdom bestowed by Pete.

  35. REPLY
    Karen MacPhee says

    My sincere condolences to the family.

  36. REPLY
    Anita Best says

    So sorry to hear of Dr. Cleary’s passing. He will surely be missed. Condolences to all the family.

  37. REPLY
    Lorraine Drover says

    He was my Grandmother’s Dr forever till she died. She loved him. Thought there was nobody like him. Condolence’s to all the family.

  38. REPLY
    Sharon Hickey zmelindy says

    So to hear of of Dr Cleary’s passing.Sending condolences .

  39. REPLY
    Margaret Anne (Cleary) McNabb, says

    So sad to know that Peter, my big brother, has passed.. Condolences from the McNabb side of the Cleary family. He loved Newfoundland and it’s people. R.I.P. Peter.

  40. REPLY
    pansy noseworthy says

    sorry for your loss he was a good man he will be missed

  41. REPLY
    Brennan says

    Joan, Cleary Family and Brothers Family, please accept our heartfelt condolences. May the many memories of Peter, bring comfort during this hard time in your lives. Hugs Anne/Dave Brennan.

  42. REPLY
    Glenn F Ploughman says

    Another skilled Dr, outdoorsman and wonderful guitarist gone from our area. Pete will be sorely missed. My sincere condolences to Joan and family.

  43. REPLY
    Paula Whelan says

    He was truly a nice person and a great doctor. Always stopped to chat with me. He was my doctor for many years. Sad to hear of his passing. My condolences to his family.

  44. REPLY
    Jeanette Hillyard says

    Thinking of all the family.. sending my condolences

    Jeanette Hillyard (Strowbridge)

  45. REPLY
    Leona Piercey says

    So sorry to hear of Dr. Cleary’s passing. Condolences to the family.

  46. REPLY
    Harry Hiscock says

    So sorry to hear of Peter’s passing, condolences to the his family.

  47. REPLY
    Joy pinsent says

    My sincere sympathy Joan and family. Thinking of you.

  48. REPLY
    Caroline Frost says

    It was an honour to be in Pete’s company on the Nordic trails. HIs passion was infectious. My condolences to Joan and family

  49. REPLY
    Loretta Paul says

    My condolences to his family and friends. I always enjoyed chatting with him.

  50. REPLY
    Tom & Doreen Ryan says

    We are very Sorry for your Loss. Condolences to the Family.

  51. REPLY
    Lois Burton says

    Joan and family
    Our sincere sympathy on the loss of your husband, father and grandfather.
    While we didn’t know Peter well, we knew him well enough to know he threw himself into everything he did, giving 100% plus.
    Our thoughts and prayers are
    with you.
    Rex and Lois

  52. REPLY
    Andrew May says

    Joan I am so sorry to hear of Peter’s passing. We are thinking and you and your family at this time. I have memories of you and Peter together going back to my teens on the ski trails. The most poignant is Dad’s marathon , when he had fibrillation on the trail, and knew Peter was right behind him as he skied back to finish. Much love from Corner Brook.

  53. REPLY
    Bryan Durant says

    My condolences to Joann and family. Many fond memories skiing with this guy. Just one fantastic guy!

  54. REPLY
    Joyce Rodway says

    My condolences to you Joan and your family. Sorry to hear about Peter’s passing.

  55. REPLY
    Howard and Judy Kelly says

    Our condolences to Joan ,Paula and Matthew. So saddened by your loss.

  56. REPLY
    Walter and Lynn Quinlan says

    Joan,
    We are so sorry to hear of Peter’s passing. I had the pleasure of meeting him several times when I was bartender/ski instructor at the White Hills Resort and a couple more times at his clinic. Every time was indeed a pleasure.
    You are in our thoughts and hearts at this sad time.

  57. REPLY
    Bob and Mary Watts says

    At this time in your grief, we would like to pass along our heartfelt condolences to family.

  58. REPLY
    Carl LeDrew says

    So sorry to hear of Peter’s passing. I have many memories of touring the trails with Peter when I lived in Clarenville.

  59. REPLY
    June Cole (Deir) says

    Joan and family, so sorry to read of Peter’s passing. Remembering the good times when we worked together at Come By Chance cottage hospital.

  60. REPLY
    Theresa Critch says

    Joan , so very sorry to hear of Peter’s passing. My condolences to you and all your family.
    Theresa

  61. REPLY
    Jim & Michelle says

    Deepest sympathies to the Cleary family. Jm & Michelle Hughes

    • REPLY
      Florence Lynch says

      Sorry to hear of Dr. Cleary’s passing. I do have wonderful memories of him while I worked at Come By Chance Hospital. Joan my condolences to you and your family.

  62. REPLY
    Donna Ballard and John Barron says

    Joan, so sorry to hear of Peter’s passing. So happy to have met him and you. We couldn’t believe it when we bumped into you last year in Norris Point as you were about to climb Gros Morne. We thought our bike ride was commendable. Talk about embracing life! Condolences to you, Paula, and Matt.

  63. REPLY
    Judith May says

    My heart goes out to Joan and the family. He is mourned and will be missed by the whole CCNL ski community. He was a fixture in the ski scene forever.

  64. REPLY
    Madonna McCarthy says

    To the Cleary Family. So sorry to hear. I will always remember how awesome he was when I had my 3rd child at Come by Chance Cottage Hospital. Know my thoughts and prayers are with you all! 😥🙏

  65. REPLY
    Gail &Frank Penney says

    Sincere condolences Joan and family. Pete lived his life to the fullest and had a positive effect in both his professional and personal interactions. He will surely be missed by many and has left a wonderful legacy.

  66. REPLY
    Carol Burke says

    Joan, we were very sad to hear that Peter had passed away. We are thinking of you and your family today, and we send you our deep condolences.

  67. REPLY
    Bill & Marie Gregory says

    Matt and Donna. We are thinking of you and your family. Our deepest condolences.

  68. REPLY
    Betty Greene Tobin says

    Jim, Pat, Joan and family and extended Brothers family, please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of Dr. Cleary.

    • REPLY
      Tony and Maureen Healey says

      To the Cleary Family,
      Sincere condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
      May he Rest In Peace.
      Tony and Maureen Healey

  69. REPLY
    Trevor Earle says

    During my time as a pharmaceutical rep, I got to know Dr Cleary. I always enjoyed stopping in to see him; yes we did get around to talking about skiing, hiking , and snowshoeing. He was a real gentleman and a pleasure to spend time with . My condolences to his friends and family.

  70. REPLY
    Maver Kennedy says

    Joan and Family,
    I’m very saddened to here of Pete’s passing. I remember working with him at GB Cross. He was a great physician and always had a story to share. My condolences to you all.

  71. REPLY
    Dianne and Freeman Bolt says

    So sorry to hear of Pete’s passing. Our sincere condolences to Joan and family.

  72. REPLY
    Terry & Cathy Bouzane says

    Joan and family. So sorry to hear of Peter’s passing
    Always enjoyed seeing him and having a chat during the softball tournament each summer. Thoughts are with you

  73. REPLY
    JANE Laite says

    Joan and family … Pete will be missed by all that knew him! I worked for many years along side of him at GB Cross ER, and watched him over and over work his magic with trauma patients ! He would show up for work with his dry sense of humour and a lunch bag full of homemade goodies and as long as you didn’t mess with his muffins or drink his Mountain Dew ……a good shift was had by all! RIP my friend !

  74. REPLY
    Andrew Whiffen says

    Very sorry to hear of Dr. Cleary’s passing.

    My condolences to the family.

  75. REPLY
    Mark and Linda Dykeman says

    Joan, our thoughts are with you and the family during this difficult time. We have great memories of Peter at Woody Island playing the guitar and having a time.

  76. REPLY
    Rod and Joan Nicholl says

    Joan and family, please accept our sincere condolences. Our houghts and prayers are with you! Pete has left a significant mark on our community.. Rest in peace!

  77. REPLY
    Terry Hart says

    Dr. Peter Cleary was a magnificent Doctor and person. He was caring, helpful and loved people, especially his family. Peter marched to his own drum but was always there for others. He had a zest for life that would be hard to match and he did that every day. Sincere condolences to Joan and family. Take comfort in that he did it his way and you were always top of list. Gotta love that. Rest In Peace Peter. You’ve earned it. Terry Hart.

  78. REPLY
    Arthur, Jessie Deir and family says

    So sorry to hear of Dr. Cleary’s passing. Sincere condolences to you and your family.

  79. REPLY
    Pauline Spurrell says

    To Joan and family, deepest condolences from Florence Spurrell and the Spurrell family.

  80. REPLY
    Barbara Taylor says

    Joan, I am so sorry to hear of Peter’S death. My sympathy to you and the family. I don’t think I ever skied on the Clarenville trails without running into to him . So many memories of Syenite and Marathons with all of you.

  81. REPLY
    Ross and Donna Martin says

    Joan, we’re sorry for your loss. Condolences to the family.

  82. REPLY
    Lorna Brown says

    Sincere condolences to you Joan and to your family.

  83. REPLY
    Dale Stagg says

    Sincere condolences to Joan and family.So enjoyed working with Dr. Cleary at Walwyn Cottage Hospital in Come By Chance and l have many fond memories!
    Thinking of you at this sad and difficult time.

  84. REPLY
    Marg Stuckless says

    Joan – I was so saddened to hear of Peter’s passing. Thinking of you and your family in this most difficult time.

  85. REPLY
    Margie Hand says

    Joan
    My deepest condolences to you and your children on the passing of Peter. Although I only met him on several occasions, usually at our renunions, he struck me as a kind and personable man, who truly became part of the fabric in the Clarenville area.
    I know you will miss him dearly
    Your Classmate
    Margie Hand

  86. REPLY
    David Brentnall says

    Joan and family, so sorry to hear about Pete’s passing. Always remember his little chuckles whenever he was telling a story. He was a great doctor and a terrific colleague.
    Dave and Bonnie Brentnall

  87. REPLY
    Julia Walsh says

    Joan, Paula, Matt & family, our heartfelt condolences to you all. We have many great memories of Dr. Cleary. He was a remarkable family Dr. to many including our children from birth to when he retired. So many of his patients would say to me , ” I certainly miss Dr. Cleary ” . He truly was a wonderful person. He was an exceptional Boss. ‘ The Best’
    Rest in Peace Dr. Cleary
    Julia & Brian Walsh

  88. REPLY
    Helen Joe says

    Joan, I am so sad for you and yours that Peter has passed. I think of you often. Love Helen.

  89. REPLY
    Roger Fitzgerald says

    Joan and family. Deepest sympathy. Roger Fitzgerald

  90. REPLY
    Silvia and Vincent Rice says

    Our deepest sympathy and condolences to Joan and family.

  91. REPLY
    Graham Oliver says

    Joan, I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences on Peter’s passing. I fondly remember meeting you folks in Lab. City back in the early 80’s and crossing paths at cross country ski events. Peter had an amazing passion for cross country skiing and he was always ready to share that passion.

  92. REPLY
    Jane & Jerry Stacey says

    Joan and Family, Sincere condolences on Pete’s passing🙏🏻
    We have great memories of Pete’s enthusiasm and encouragement on the cross country ski trails and of course when he worked shifts in ER. Thinking of you.

  93. REPLY
    Lynne Cooke (Guerin) says

    Joan – my condolences to you and your family

    Yesterday, something triggered memories of you and Peter and I decided to once again try to google you both. I was very saddened to have his obituary come up.

    I have so many good memories of you both from
    The years I spent in Arnold’s Cove. And our trips into the obstetrician in St Johns – I’m reminded of those trips every year in January for Kathryn’s birthday.

    Our loved ones are never truly gone as long as there are people in the world remembering ……

    Hugs – Lynne

  94. REPLY
    Peter Walker says

    I was thinking fondly of Peter today and came across the notice of his passing. What an enormous shame. Peter and I shared a basement apartment when we went through medical school. We subsisted on glop, Peter’s recipe. We had to get into the apartment through a basement window, just above the stove as it happened. And I remember the two of us trudging back home after an evening of studying and a stop in the Albion for a couple of beers. We had ‘rescued’ a church pew that we thought would fit nicely in our apartment. I remember Peter rebuilding the engine of his old Volvo on the living room floor. And I remember him coming back home one evening after he had taken it out for a spin. He had been stopped by a cop who told him he had to go down to the station – he had a bunch of outstanding parking tickets, as Peter would have had. Peter came in and picked up his guitar to head down to the police station and I went off to the Faculty library to raise money for his bail. When I went to bail him out Peter sauntered out of the jail and told me he had sounded off at the police officers that he had killed JFK when they locked him up. Peter was the best man at my wedding. Oh the days. What a prince. What a wonderful, compassionate and deeply funny guy. He has left us too early but heaven’s a better place for his presence.

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