Peter will be with me for a long time. I worked closely with him for 9 years and in total, for 15 years. He kept everyday interesting and almost everyday, he had a story for me. In addition to his stories, he'd always amaze me with his ability to find use in everything. To be honest, I don't recall ever seeing him throw anything away.🥰 He was always willing to help despite being in discomfort. I will always Remember Peter for his stories and unwaivering support of others. My condolences to the family. He will be missed.
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Peter and I worked together at Donaldson. I got to know him when I transferred into the Fiber Technology group. One day, not long into my new role, I called Peter after he'd missed a few days of work. It was during the pandemic, things were still in flux, and people were stuck at home. I wanted to make sure he was okay. Peter picked up and we talked for nearly an hour while I walked around my neighborhood, which was quieted by quarantine. This started a habit of long walks and long talks. That year he was sick off and on. So I liked to call and check in on him. But honestly I was lonely too with the isolation of lockdown. Peter kept me company and kept my spirits up. He would tell me stories about his three boys. And I would tell him about my three boys. It was plainly evident he loved them each and was so proud of the young men they had grown into. He never missed an opportunity to brag on them. Peter would also tell me about his elderly mother who he was worried about back in Kenya. I could relate with my own mom having just retired to Minnesota before the pandemic started. Despite all the uncertainty of that time, Peter was so calm and positive. He told me his faith in Jesus gave him a sense of peace. He told me Jeremiah 29:11 was his favorite verse: "For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord. Plans to Prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future." Peter eventually got healthier and returned to work regularly. I got to know him in-person too. He was still the quiet optimist I knew from our talks, but there was a new silly side to him too. A side that would tease Thom, the coworker he called his brother. A side that would give him a mischievous look in his eye when he thought I'd asked him to do something stupid in the lab and he'd say "not this Kenyan." Peter was my friend. I miss him very much. He was genuine. He had heart. He loved his family. And I was fortunate to receive some of that love from him too.
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Patricia de Leon
2024, Donaldson Company, Inc., West 94th Street, Bloomington, MN, USA
Peter was my laboratory co-worker, my partner-in-crime in our crazy moonshot R&D project. Peter was the lively streak of optimism and quiet faith that our work was worth doing, and I could always rely on Peter to put a smile on my face even through the most intense pressure and tight work deadlines. I will always miss you, my friend! I will never forget your "spear" dance in front of R5, and your stories of life in Kenya that stirred my imagination so. Your story of how you came to faith in Christ was inspiring and I know that I will see you again on the other side of glory, my dear brother in Christ. You were always proud of your sons and your grandkids, and I know they are proud of you too.
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I am so sorry to hear of Peter's passing. I got to know him for a little while. And we shared our faith I know he is in his eternal home now. No more pain, no more suffering. No more crying, no more dying. The angels are rejoicing. I was so blessed to know him. I will never forget him. I am praying for all his family and friends during this difficult time. And that the Lord will send his comforter.
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