Just over four years ago, longtime Côte Saint-Luc City Councillor Ruth Kovac left us following  a valiant battle against cancer. Behind her every step of the way was Peter Kovac, her devoted husband of 47 years.

Since his wife’s passing, Peter kept her memory alive by supporting  many of her causes (including a blood donor clinic in CSL that was named in her memory).

When I first met Peter and Ruth a few decades ago I thought that he closely resembled actor Dustin Hoffman. So whenever I’d see him, I  always said , “how’s Dustin?” He would respond with that infectious smile.

Ruth was a dynamic member of city council.  We initially connected when she ran for office in 1986, succeeding David Klinger. She  was a passionate  individual and Peter would often be in the audience for council meetings and accompany her to events and conferences. When she passed away, many thought he might succeed her.

Peter had a successful career in the garment industry, as a financial advisor and yes even as a restaurateur. For a number of years he was a partner in Le Biftheque Boucherville. One night he and Ruth took my friend and colleague Glenn Nashen and I out for a terrific steak dinner to celebrate her election.

Peter and Ruth (middle) seated with city council, spouses and staff at a 2016 event.

Peter was a loving dad and grandfather.  He was only 76 years of age, like Ruth ( who was 69), he left us way too soon.

Even though he had health issues the last few years, Peter did not even share this with many who were close to him. So news of his passing came as a total shock.

My sympathies go out to his entire family.

Funeral service from Paperman & Sons, 3888 Jean-Talon West, will be  on Tuesday, January 2 at 2 p.m. Burial at the Congregation Shaare Zion Section, Eternal Gardens