Peter King Gummer, loving and much beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at Chaleur Regional Hospital on March 23, 2019 at the age of 76. Born in 1942 to Wilfred King Gummer and Beatrice Caroline Gummer (née Tamblyn), he grew up in Arvida, Québec. In his first visit to Bathurst, New Brunswick in 1961, he met Donna Blair, whom he married in 1964. He received his B.Sc. in Geology from Mount Allison University in 1966.
An inspired exploration geologist, Peter pursued his profession with a sense of adventure throughout his life, in locations all over Canada, in Australia, and elsewhere. Known by some as the maverick of the mining camp, he was convinced of the untapped potential in mineral properties around Bathurst, and in his "retirement," he worked energetically to demonstrate their value.
Peter’s love for his work was exceeded only by his caring devotion to family and community. He touched many lives with his boundless energy, generosity, and playful sense of humor. An unshakeable optimist to the end, Peter was always embarking on a new project. And he loved to nurture the same insatiable curiosity in others, especially his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
He is survived by his wife Donna Gummer (née Blair); his daughters Natalie Gummer (John Watrous) of Beloit Wisconsin, USA and Lynda Gummer of Zihuatanejo, Mexico; his two grandchildren, Natalia and Alejandro Gaitan Gummer; his siblings Susan Scott of Vancouver, Washington, USA, Wendy (Camil) Samson of Desbiens, Quebec, and William (Beverley) Gummer of Edmonton, Alberta; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held at 2pm on Wednesday July 3, 2019 in the Highland View Cemetery with a reception to follow at St.George's Anglican church. Donations may be made to the Chaleur Regional Hospital Palliative Care Unit or to St. George’s Anglican Church. Arrangements are in the care of Elhatton Funeral Home (www.elhatton.com), Bathurst, NB.