Peter Walker, who died on 29th December 2025, had a three-pronged career as Merchant Navy officer, Accountant and Farmer.
Born in 1941 he went to sea as a cadet with the British and Commonwealth Shipping Company in1957 and after passing his master’s ticket came ashore in 1969 to train for a second career as an Accountant with Deloitte in Cardiff. He then met and married Ann, who was a farmer’s daughter, and so became a farmer himself whilst simultaneously setting up his own practice as an accountant in his home town of Barry.
Peter retained his life-long love of the sea and when we returned Kingswear Castle to operational condition in 1985 he asked if he could help. After that he continued as our accountant for more than thirty five years latterly, and until he started to become seriously ill with cancer last year, as our auditor. He also did work for the PSPS.
Peter had a genial personality, quietly took everything in his stride and was a good friend to Kingswear Castle, and to me personally, over very many years.
He was very much a family man. He leaves behind his wife Ann, his daughter Sarah and three grandchildren Ella, Rhydian and Meredith. His son Richard, who latterly looked after the farm, died of cancer in 2024.
At his funeral on 3rd February in Bridgend the chapel was absolutely packed with all the pews taken and many more mourners standing at the back and sides. I would guess there were well over one hundred there which is great testament to how much he was loved.
Kingswear Castle returned to service in 2023 after the first part of a major rebuild which is designed to set her up for the next 25 years running on the River Dart. The Paddle Steamer Kingswear Castle Trust is now fund raising for the second phase of the rebuild. You can read more about the rebuilds and how you can help if you can here.
John Megoran