It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Peter Alexander Warland, whose impact and enduring legacy will be cherished by all whose lives he touched. While words often fail to capture the depth of a person’s influence, in remembrance we can find solace, in the memories, achievements, and the quiet moments that gave meaning to a remarkable existence.

Born into a family shaped by love, resilience, and adventure, Pete spent his formative years surrounded by the warmth of kinship and the encouragement to explore the world with curiosity. His childhood home echoed with song & laughter, the hum of daily life, and moments of quiet reflection—a place where character and creativity were gently nurtured.

With daily practice and determined dedication he became an accomplished guitarist and bassist.  If he wasn’t playing, he was at most of the gigs, helping with sound, lending equipment, filming, and posting & promoting performances.  He was just always present contributing, which may have part of why he was affectionately known as ‘The Oak Tree of Rock & Roll’.

Pete graduated from Mount Baker Secondary in 1975 and he joined CP Rail a few years later. Due to limited advancement opportunities in Cranbrook, he moved to the lower mainland, where he completed conductor and engineer training. Once he secured an engineer position in Cranbrook, he returned with his young family. After over 35 years of service, Pete retired from the railroad in 2013.

His retirement years were filled with jams, gigs, and tours.  A favorite activity was the daily drives with his dogs Kimba,  ChiChi, Luther & Nova.  He took them on every mountain road in the area.  His dogs likely know the back roads around here better than most.  Happiest doggie’s around!

Family meant the world to Pete.  He grew from the solid foundation his parents built for him and his sister.  He was a doting father and loved his kids as fiercely as any parent.  He spent over 25 years living with his life partner, Lori.  Through all the ups and downs they were always there for each other.  Friendships, too, were treasured like rare gems—cultivated over decades, sustained by shared experiences and a deep sense of mutual respect. Whether through handwritten notes, regular phone calls, or spontaneous gatherings, he maintained bonds that endured distance and time.

Life for Pete was never just about work or obligation. He travelled widely with his family while he was growing up, teaching him both a love for adventure and an appreciation for the amazing area we call home. He was a person of many interests, whose passions brought joy and colour to each day.  An avid down hill skier, a lover of music, a voracious reader, his curiosity knew no bounds.

Now, as we gather to celebrate and mourn, we are reminded that a legacy is measured by the love, memorable moments, and inspiration left behind. Pete leaves a world infinitely richer for his presence—memories from countless acts of generosity, moments of laughter, and quiet expressions of care.  His never-ending devotion to the music scene in the Cranbrook area is evident by the amazing tributes and the outpouring of condolences.  His loss will certainly leave a mark that those of us who loved him are happy to bear.

Peter was predeceased by his grandmother Alice Alexander, mother Jean (Jimmy) Warland, father Peter Alfred Warland, brother-in-Law Richard Juryn, and nephew Shawn Aske.  He is survived by his c/l wife Lori Sturney, son Peter (Roxanne), daughter Jessica (Kevin), stepson Brandon, sister Jill, niece Tahnee (Ian), nephew Parker, step grandkids Derik and Jorden plus extended family on the Warland and Sturney sides.

His life reminds us to cherish our loved ones, to follow our dreams, and to never give up. In honouring his memory, though we feel Pete’s absence keenly, we find comfort in knowing that his story lives on—in the hearts of family and friends, in the community he helped build, in every life he touched, and the stories we continue to tell about him.

In lieu of flowers please donate generously to any group that helps animals of all shapes and sizes.  SPCA, Leslie Long, Little Mittens or any animal rescue organization.

A Celebration of Pete’s Life is scheduled for August 23, 2025 at the Colombo Lodge 2550 8th Ave S, Cranbrook, BC.  Doors open at 2:00pm.