Dr. Peter Meincke, distinguished scholar, University Administrator, global citizen, but above all a well loved and respected member of our Royal Commonwealth Society family, and twice our National Chair, passed away today.
As we know more details regarding any sort of memorial services planned we will pass them onto you. He will be sorely missed by all of us who knew, worked with and loved him.
We will also work on creating an appropriate commemorative event for him, once we have consulted his family. More details to follow.
Thank you for your fine record of service to letters, to students, to Canada and the Commonwealth and to us all. Rest in Peace,
Shawn M. Wade, CD, LL.M.,
Chair,
The Royal Commonwealth Society
Of Canada National Council
July 21st, 2025
P.S.
- “Dr. Meincke’s funeral is scheduled for August 23, 2025″ – UPEI mourns passing of Dr. Peter Meincke, President Emeritus
- Obituary of Meincke, Peter Paul Max B.Sc., M.A., Ph.D., D.Sc.
REMEMBERING
Dr. Peter Meincke B.Sc, M.A., Ph.D, D.Sc.
The Royal Commonwealth Society, Ottawa, deeply mourns the passing of Dr. Peter Meincke on July 21, 2025, in his 90th year. Dr. Meincke was a long-standing and cherished member of our branch, having served with distinction as a former President of the Ottawa branch and as a former Chair of the Royal Commonwealth Society of Canada’s, National Council.
Dr. Meincke held a deep interest in the impact of technology on society. His career included significant contributions as a researcher at the University of Toronto and Bell Labs, where he specialized in the field of supercomputers. Later, as President of the University of Prince Edward Island, he championed the establishment of the Institute of Island Studies and the Island Web Consortium. These initiatives focused on the unique culture, environment, and economy of small islands, ultimately leading him to consult for the United Nations on the creation of the Small Island Developing States Network.
A passionate advocate for The Commonwealth, Dr. Meincke was dedicated to promoting its core values: democracy, separation of powers, the rule of law, human rights, freedom of expression, sustainable development, and environmental protection. With a special emphasis on youth, gender equality, and the needs of small and vulnerable states.
We will greatly miss his insightful leadership within the Royal Commonwealth Society and the memorable garden parties at his home along the river, where we gathered to advance Commonwealth values. He was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee and King Charles III Coronation Medals for his work on sustainable development.
May he “Rest in Peace”.
The Royal Commonwealth Society, sends their condolences to his family and friends.
A Memorial service will be held August 23 10:00-11:00 Capital Funeral Home, 3700 Prince of Wales Drive, Ottawa, followed by a reception.