Captain, Charles Peter McHardy
Captain, Charles Peter McHardy. Our Peter passed away peacefully early on Christmas morning. Peter was comfortable knowing his son, Mike, and loving wife, Cory, were by his side holding his hand.
Peter is survived by the love of his life, Cory. They were together for 40 beautiful years filled with love, good times, and enough adventures to fill ten lifetimes. They traveled to every corner of the globe, making new friends at every turn. While at home, their door was always open with a seat at the table, a toast, and a laugh.
Peter’s passion was flying. He was a pilot who had a true love for the skies, which was evident by his refusal to retire. It all started in Saint Louis where he attended Parks College and flew mail in his favourite Beach-18. His career launched at Great Lakes Airlines in 1975. After 29 years with Air Canada, Peter continued his flying adventures and brought his career in for a soft landing, teaching the younger generations how to fly. In his spare time, he took to the skies with family and friends. Notably, Peter and his best bud Paul Ragany shared countless memories in their yellow Cessna 172 and on the ground.
Peter has four loving children Scott (Rosie), Jennifer (Rick), Mike (Ana), and Sara (Tayte). Peter has three grandchildren, Allie, Maya and Nixon, whom he adored. In the months before his passing, Peter was also awaiting the arrival of his fourth grandchild. Lois Ann McHardy, a living legend, was devastated by the loss of her son, months from her 100th birthday. Peter was pre-deceased by his father Bruce McHardy. Peter had 5 siblings, Michael, Nancy, Jeff, Mary-Lou, and John, along with many nieces and nephews. Peter had so many wonderful friends. One of his best friends, Gary Kerin trained and rose the ranks alongside Peter at Air Canada. Gary organized Peter’s retirement celebration after his final commercial flight landed from London, England. This meant a lot to Peter. We will never forget Peter’s larger-than-life personality, charm, and amazing sense of humor. He left an impression on everyone who was lucky enough to share in his company. He will be dearly missed.
No more turbulent skies Peter, may you rest in peace.
In lieu of flowers, for those who wish to honor Peter’s legacy with a donation, contributions can be made to PHSS Medical Complex Care in London, Ontario. The main office number is 519-660-6635 or the URL to donate directly is as follows. https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E351224QE&id=1
Offer Condolence for the family of Captain, Charles Peter McHardy
Linda Robbins
I am so sad + heart broken for your loss.
I met Peter in 1976 at Great Lakes Aitlines and really enjoyed flying with him.
I have loved watching the continuing Love Story between Cory + Peter + watching your beautiful family grow.
Your whole family has my sincere condolences and l will keep you all in my thought and prayers.
Your photos + memories will become treasures that you will hold near and dear to your hearts.
Rest in Peace Peter. Your shining star will be one of the brightest in the sky.
Lynne Ferreira
So sorry for your loss Cory. Peter was always a pleasure to work with. May the wonderful memories carry you forward and stay with you always! Hugs! Lynne Ferreira YZR/YXU alumni.
Wayne Dephoure
Years ago I did an New York layover with Pete. We had 2 beers each in the Restaurant at the base of the Twin towers. The beer was quite good. However unknown to us they were also $15 bucks each! And the Canadian dollar was really low at the time. Pete bought all 4 beers which was obviously not cheap. Thankfully he also got to keep the glasses at the end which were part of the high price. I’ve thought of those beer glasses often over the years, especially after the restaurant was later destroyed on 9/11. I hope his family still has them. Like Pete, they were one of a kind. Great Captain , great guy.
Sad to hear of his passing. One of my all time favourite guys to fly with.
Wayne Dephoure
Burlington
Ulfar Gudjonsson
I am going to to miss your wonderful personality and friendship.
Peter Hughes
My condolences to Peter’s family and friends.
I knew Peter as I was one of the students on the same new hire course at Air Canada in Dec 1978.
Peter was always a gentlemen. I admired his calm and kind manner. He was the eldest pilot on our course and we all looked up to him and had great respect for him.
Rest in peace Peter.
Ann & Ron Edmondson
Dear Cory,
It is with much sadness that we have learned of the passing of Peter. He was one of a kind. Such a fun loving guy and always keeping us entertained with his jokes and comments. We have so many fond memories of spending time with You, Peter and your family at the Lake Rosseau camp ground. We remember the excitement when Peter landed his yellow Cessna at the municipal dock on Lake Rosseau. We only wish we had kept in touch with you both over the last several years!! Our deepest sympathies go out to you, Sarah and Mike and family. “Rest In Peace Peter”.
Love Ron, Ann, Chris & Tim