Peter Girouard

The death of Peter Girouard of 130 University Avenue, Saint John, NB, occurred at the St. John and St. Stephen Home on May 19, 2025. He was 81. Peter Girouard was born December 11, 1943 in Westmorland County, New Brunswick.  

Peter was the son of Peter and Aurore (Tanguay) Girouard and father to Sara Nicole Girouard Ritzie (husband Greg Gillan), Puslinch, ON.  He was predeceased by parents Peter and Aurore Girouard; sister Leah (Lea) McBrien (nee Girouard), Toronto, ON,  and brother David Girouard, Moncton, NB.   He is survived by wife Deborah Sheila Girouard (nee Roberts); brother Samuel Girouard (Paula), Washington State, USA; sister Rachel Bisson (nee Girouard), Montreal, PQ;  sister Martha Chiappa (nee Girouard) and husband, Raymond, Bouctouche, NB; sister Mary Lee (nee Girouard), Saint John, NB, and numerous cousins, nephews and nieces.

During the course of his life, Peter lived in several places, among them Moncton and Saint John NB; and Peterborough, Toronto and Mississauga, ON.  I think anyone who knew him well would say that of all his vocations Peter considered his main occupation to be as a chef, although he held several positions along the way such as: long distance trucker; custodian/cleaner; auto shop tire mechanic; and several other occupations.  Peter enjoyed acting with an amateur theatre group in Saint John. He had a big heart which was particularly evident in how he adored children, and animals of all types including: his Siamese cat, Celine; his horse Twinkles, and her foal ,Cindy; and his beloved Doberman, Henry.  

Peter had a very close relationship with his elder sister, Lea, who loved him unconditionally and was always there to comfort and support Peter through life's trials and tribulations.  Peter was warmly welcomed at the home of Lea and Ross McBrien, where he visited regularly and sometimes stayed for short periods. He was well loved by Lea's children and was especially close to her eldest son, Barry.

Although he claimed no direct credit, Peter was proud of the accomplishments of his only surviving child - his daughter - Dr. Sara Ritzie.  

Beth Tyrrell (nee McBrien), daughter to Lea, niece to Peter, along with the extended Girouard family, wish to express special thanks to staff at the Church of St. John and St. Stephen Home Inc. for their wonderful care.  We are deeply grateful and most fortunate for their attention, care and professionalism, especially when things got challenging during the 7 years Peter resided at the home.