McDonald, Peter Ward, “Pete”, age 80, passed away peacefully on December 9th in Mississauga, Ontario. Pete was born in Vancouver, British Columbia on February 16th, 1941. After growing up in Vancouver, Pete attended the University of British Columbia to earn his Bachelor of Commerce in Financial Mathematics, then continued on at UBC to earn his MBA. Pete began his business career in the consumer finance business and quickly moved into the Equipment Leasing Industry where he became a true pioneer and innovator. Leading the industry into structured leasing, syndication and securitization In the early 1980’s he moved to Toronto, Ontario where his business acumen and personality vaulted him to leadership roles in numerous private and public leasing companies. He served as President, CEO or Chairman for organizations such as First City Capital, Tuckahoe Leasing, Textron Financial Corporation, Citi Capital and LiftCapital (now Toyota Industries Commercial Finance). His influence positively affected the careers of so many in the Leasing Industry over an amazing 50 year timeline. Pete was most recently president and CEO at Ciscom Corporation. He also served on the Board of Directors of public companies, the Canadian Equipment Finance and Leasing Association and was a long time member and former President of the Islington Golf Club in Toronto.
Pete had many talents including his epic entrepreneurism, finance and leasing expertise and playing golf. He loved life and it loved him back. He appreciated the finer things - his extended families, beautiful women, loyal friends, fast cars, good food, wine and scotch. Pete’s infectious sense of humour would have those around him roaring with laughter and perhaps his greatest gift was his ability to recognize the humour in his own life journey. He was also passionate about supporting local businesses around Port Credit, where he lived for over 15 years, and forged lasting friendships with the staff and patrons at places like Colossus , La Castile and Cudas.
Preceded in death by his parents Ida and John Ward McDonald. Survived by his sister, Jane Hall (nee McDonald), sons Michael (Mike) and Ryan and daughter, Ava. His family and friends were everything to Pete, especially his children. He enjoyed spending time with them celebrating the holidays and hosting family dinners. He was respected by many and beloved by all who knew him.
A Celebration of Life honouring Pete will be held in the warmer months next year with more details to follow.