Obituary of Pierre "Pete" Cadotte

It is with deep sadness that the family of Pierre (Pete) Cadotte announces his peaceful passing into eternal life on Monday, May 26, 2025, at home, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family.

Born in Dover Township on September 9, 1947, Pierre was the beloved son of the late Lena (King) and Elzeor Cadotte. He was predeceased by his cherished wife, Camelia (Cam) Cadotte (2021).

Pete leaves behind a loving legacy through his daughters; Amy Landry (Don) of Mooretown, Ann Marie Lindsay (Cal) of Guelph, Angela Soulliere (Jamie) of Pain Court, and Amanda Beselaere-Miller (Rod) of Corunna.

He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren, who affectionately knew him as “Pepe”; Alexander Landry (Clare Cesnik), Gabrielle Landry (Jack Murphy), Owen and Peter Lindsay, Cole and Lukas Miller.

He is also lovingly remembered by his siblings Francis (Shirley), Shurley (2021) (Janet), Barbara Graham, and his twin brother Paul (Joanne).

He was predeceased by his in laws Rita (1994), Yvonne (1989), Roger Sheeler (1998), and Byrne Graham (2014).

Pete is survived by many nieces and nephews, several of whom were able to visit with him in his final weeks—a gift he cherished.  He also leaves behind many cherished friends and colleagues with whom he shared meaningful moments and lasting memories.

Pete dedicated nearly four decades of his life to the metal packaging industry, working for companies including Libby Container, American Can, Continental Can, and Crown Cork & Seal. A millwright by trade, he quickly advanced into management, where he spent the majority of his career. Known for being tough but fair, Pete earned the respect of everyone on the floor through his integrity, strong work ethic, and no-nonsense leadership. Even after his retirement in 2005, Pete’s drive never waned. He poured his energy into volunteer work, where he found a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment. Always on the go, he was affectionately nicknamed “the Energizer Bunny” by those who knew and loved him—because Pete never stopped giving his all.

Throughout his life, Pete embodied a spirit of service and compassion. He was devoted to numerous charitable causes and organizations, including Refuge (Right to Life), St. Agnes Soup Kitchen, St. Vincent de Paul, Big Brothers, Goodfellows, Canadian Food for Children, and served on the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Hospital Board. He was a proud member of Knights of Columbus Council #1412 and a 4th Degree member of St. James Assembly.

Pete was a mentor and a friend to many. He shared his love of lawn bowling with joy, teaching newcomers the sport at the Tilbury and Chatham Lawn Bowling Clubs, and took great pride in serving as greenskeeper at the Chatham club, where the grounds flourished under his care.

Pete was a crafty and creative soul, always making something with his hands and heart. He built birdhouses, hand carved ducks and other birds, crafted stained glass pieces, and turned cardboard into art with surprising charm. But his greatest joy was found in the garden—growing anything he could, from the practical to the beautiful. He loved passing that passion on to his grandchildren, teaching them how to dig, plant, and harvest with care. Any summer visit to his home came with a mandatory garden tour, where he’d proudly show off his latest blooms and bounty. Generous to the core, he shared the fruits of his labour with friends, family, and neighbours. In the kitchen, he was just as joyful—baking pies, fresh bread, and his beloved Christmas cake, along with any sweet treat that caught his fancy. And if you knew him well, you knew there was always a stash of 5 to 7 gallons of ice cream in his freezer—only Chapman’s Premium, of course. Nothing but the best for Pete.

Pete faced his illness with unwavering strength, grace, and a positive attitude that inspired all who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation at Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home, 156 William St. S, Chatham, on Friday May 30^th from 1-4 & 6-8pm.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St Joseph’s Church, Chatham on Saturday May 31st at 10am. Cremation will follow the mass.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial donations to Canadian Food for Children or the Victorian Order of Nurses (VON), causes close to Pierre’s heart.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Tomen, nurses Mary Beth and Olivia (VON), PSW Saan, and the staff at Chatham Family Pharmacy for the exceptional care and compassion shown throughout Pierre’s journey.