Image: City of Abbotsford / George Peary (second from left) received the King Charles III Coronation Medal in September 2024 from former MLA Michael de Jong and Ross Siemens. Peary passed on Monday, Sept. 29 after a distinguished career as an educator and former mayor of Abbotsford.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Former Abbotsford mayor

Former Abbotsford mayor passes, leaving a distinguished legacy of service

Oct 1, 2025 | 6:38 AM

ABBOTSFORD — The former mayor of Abbotsford who earned respect and countless accolades for his service in the community and academia has passed.

Wade Peary posted on Facebook that George Peary, who served as an educator, mayor and city councillor, coach, mentor and friend, has sadly died.

“With profound sadness, we share the passing of George Peary on September 29,” Wade wrote. “He touched countless lives through his leadership, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his community.”

Peary lost a courageous battle with cancer.

“Both he and Sylvia deeply valued and appreciated the many visits and expressions of care they received over the past several years,” Wade wrote on Facebook. “Details regarding a service will be shared once arrangements have been made. We thank you for your kindness, support, and understanding as we navigate this difficult time.”

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In addition to serving as a city councillor and mayor, Peary worked as a vice principal at Abbotsford Senior Secondary, before becoming principal of Maple Ridge Secondary, W.J. Mouat Secondary, Abbotsford Junior Secondary and Yale Secondary.

As a secondary school administrator, Peary worked to develop a new model of education at the Career Technical Centre (CTC). Working with UFV, Peary led the CTC to become the first school in Canada where high school students in trades and technical programs could earn university credits before graduating. Students learned from secondary teachers and university instructors working side by side in this pioneering approach.

Peary was a charter president and member of the Rotary Club of Abbotsford; director of the 1995 Western Canada Summer Games; director of the Abbotsford Sports Hall of Fame; board member of Central Fraser Valley Fairs Association; member of Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce, MSA Museum Society, Habitat for Humanity, and Agrifair; advisor to Abbotsford Hospice fundraising programs; and spent 21 years getting involved in making the city’s Abbotsford Regional Hospital and Cancer Centre a reality.

Peary received the King Charles III Coronation Medal for his years of public service and his significant contributions to Abbotsford as an educator and through his charity work.