Orchestras Mississauga would like to extend heartfelt condolences to the family of Pieter Kool for the loss of a great humanitarian.

A recent recipient of the John Barnum Service Award for excellence, Pieter was an 8 year member of the MSO Board of Directors, and an enthusiastic promoter of the arts in Mississauga.

A hardworking and passionate man, Pieter had a long career in the expanding office technology industry, but his true calling was in community service. He was deeply involved in the Rotary Club, the Rotary Youth Exchange program, Sheridan Homelands Rate Payers Association “SHORA”, and on the board of Mississauga Symphony Orchestra, always embodying the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self”.

Whether organizing the music entertainment for Mississauga Ribfest, writing articles for the Sheridan times, setting up Shakespeare in the Park plays or rallying volunteers to all of these and many more worthy projects, he was a man impossible to say no to. Mostly because he wouldn’t take no for an answer, always doing so with a smile and encouragement.

Through his many charitable and volunteer contributions, Pieter was known and respected by Mayors, MPs, MPPs, and local leaders throughout his community who had the privilege of knowing him.

Pieter’s elegant demeanor was a role model of civility in the graceful and friendly way that he treated colleagues, patrons, sponsors, and staff with respect and dignity.

Pieter will be deeply missed but forever remembered.