Obituary of Peter Thomas Zan

May 27, 1969 – Calgary, Alberta

October 21, 2021 – Calgary, Alberta

Peter Zan of Calgary, AB, passed away suddenly on Thursday, October 21, 2021, at the age of 52 years.

Peter was born in Calgary, Alberta on May 27, 1969. He was adopted by Ed and Val and with his brothers became the centre of their world. His parents filled Pete’s childhood with quality family time, laughter and learning important life skills like how to count a Cribbage hand, fix a leaky tap and tune up a car. Throughout his life, Pete happily shared these skills with many. Pete was a quiet kid, but he made friends easily with his good nature. He kept many of these friends his whole life. Pete also carried many of the hobbies he loved as a child into adulthood. He enjoyed listening to music and playing the guitar. He learned chess as a kid and was a natural from an early age. He still enjoyed a match with a worthy opponent. His parents took the boys camping and fishing regularly and eventually to their own cabin. Pete continued this love of the outdoors with camping trips in his trailer. He loved to share his interest in games and toys with his nephews, who helped keep the kid in him entertained. Pete learned a lot about vehicles at his father’s side and turned that passion into his career as a mechanic. He will be remembered at his best as funny, kind, stubborn, smart, helpful and loving. But Pete also had his battles, and we are heartbroken at the toll they took on his life. His disease began as a socially acceptable pastime, and although we know he fought against it, it was too insidious to defeat. We will choose to remember him at his best and as so much more than his struggles.

Pete is survived by his loving mother, Valiere Zan; his brothers David and Mark and sister-in-law Monique; and his nephews Owen, Elliot and Christian, all of Calgary; as well as numerous aunts, cousins and friends. Peter was predeceased by his father, Edward Zan, on October 22, 2020.

Funeral Services will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY (Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB) on Friday, October 29, 2021 at 2:00 p.m., 2021. Please come as you are comfortable – Pete would never ask a friend to wear a tie. Gathering to follow at Austin’s Bar and Grill, 11625 Elbow Drive SW. Those attending the service will be asked to confirm one of the following, (A) COVID vaccination (date requested), OR (B) a negative COVID test (within 72 hours), OR (C) Medical exemption AND valid government identification (with name & date of birth) OR (D) Under 12 years of age. Condolences, memories and photos can also be shared and viewed here.

In living memory of Peter Zan, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.