Peter Joseph Davidson, age 86, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026, at the Ottawa Civic Hospital.
Born on May 28, 1939, in Kenora, Peter was the son of the late James Noble Davidson and Gertrude Ann Davidson (Wallner).
He was the beloved husband of Marie Zita Davidson (Guimond) and a devoted father to James Marc Davidson (Erica) and Benjamin Nelson Davidson. He is lovingly remembered by his siblings Mary Jeanne Davidson; John Charles Davidson (Leona); Elizabeth Anne Becker (David); and Constance Louise Jacobson (Gary). He was predeceased by his brother James (Jamie) Noble Davidson and his sister Gertrude Ann Smelko (Albert).
Peter was a pioneer in the early days of computing, working as a computer programmer when computers filled large, air-conditioned rooms. His career began in Dayton and Buffalo before he returned to Canada to continue his work with the Canadian Government in Ottawa, witnessing extraordinary technological change over the decades.
Peter loved his sons. He taught them to ride their bikes during their first year in Ottawa, organized long family road trips to both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts so they could experience all of Canada (and so he could dip his toes in both oceans), and took them camping where tents were pitched together and memories were made.
He designed and built the family cottage by hand on a steep lakeside slope in the Gatineau region of Quebec — hauling lumber by canoe, including 2x4s and plywood, across cold, windy water to the site. The cottage became a place of canoeing and kayaking adventures, with the family dog barking enthusiastically at the waves — a testament to Peter’s determination and vision.
Peter was equally dedicated to supporting his sons’ interests. He helped organize local track and field championships, once staying up all night programming the heats, semi-finals, and finals for an entire meet. He also served as president of the Ottawa Kinsmen Harriers, giving generously of his time to youth athletics.
He had a lifelong love of reading and spent countless patient hours building intricate a detailed model of the Bluenose II — reflecting his pride in Canadian ingenuity and achievement. He spoke often of the Avro Canada CF-105 Arrow and lamented its cancellation, believing deeply in Canada’s engineering talent and potential.
Peter and Zita later embraced country life and operated a welcoming bed and breakfast on their farm in Riceville, Ontario. In retirement, Peter and Zita travelled widely, including a Mediterranean cruise, two trips through France, and several January stays in San Miguel de Allende. He especially cherished family connections and could often be seen proudly wearing one of his “DAVIDSON REUNION” t-shirts collected over five family reunions through the years.
Even in his final days, Peter was surrounded by love. Zita and Ben spent the night at his side sharing stories and memories, while Marc joined them by speaker phone, adding his voice to the conversation. Together they spoke, remembered, and held close the many moments that shaped their life as a family.
Funeral arrangements will take place at Beechwood Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services.
Peter will be remembered for his quiet intelligence, strong sense of purpose, deep love of family, pride in his country, and enduring sense of humour.