Preston passed away peacefully at home on Monday, August 26, 2024 in his 80th year.
Deeply loved by his wife Deb, son Christopher (Angela) and granddaughters Ripley and Matilda. Predeceased by his much loved and sorely missed daughter Angela.
Also survived by his former wife Daphne Armstrong, sisters Maureen Lane (the late Brad), Marla Macoretta (Aldo), Aunt Marilyn Pullar (the late Scotty) as well as nieces and nephews Stephanie MacCormack (Aaron), Michael Lane (Sandra), Blair Yates, Stephen Pullar (Jan), Colleen Pullar, Ryan Pullar (Ginny) and several great nieces and nephews.
Preston was born on October 18, 1944 in St. Catharines to the late Leona (nee Carr) and Gambi Zuliani. He attended Thorold High School where he was active in football and many other sports and was also the valedictorian for his graduating class. He also attended Western University where he received his Bachelor of Science and was again selected to be the valedictorian at graduation. He continued his education at the University of Toronto where he earned his Masters of Science and a PHD in Chemistry and Physics. As a testament to his intellectual abilities his thesis was funded by NASA.
He continued his studies at the University of Toronto Medical School, graduating in 1975 and returned to St. Catharines and set up his practice on Belton Boulevard where he remained until 2016.
Preston was Head of the Emergency Department, and was instrumental in establishing CPR and advanced CPR programs, as well as the Palliative Care Committee, all of which have made a significant contribution to the health and wellbeing of the St. Catharines community.
Preston was elected President of the Ontario College of Physicians and Surgeons in 2008, a further testament to the high regard he was held in by his colleagues.
In 2016, he relocated his medical practice to Front Street in Thorold, returning to his “roots” where he continued to serve his community and his beloved patients. That was his mission.
Preston played hockey with the Jordan Old Timers League for 30 years, where he enjoyed playing on the same team as his son Chris
The family would like to thank everyone for their kindness, compassion and support during this difficult time. Arrangements have been entrusted to Passfield Mortuary Services Inc. St. Catharines. A Celebration of Preston’s Life will be held at a later date after we have had time to deal with this tremendous loss to ourselves and the community.
The family, and Preston would be grateful for donations to be made in his memory to the Niagara Ronald McDonald Family Room c/o Rotary Club, St Catharines South or Community Care Thorold.
We would like to invite you to attend a celebration of Preston's life on Sunday, September 29, 2024 from 1-5pm at the Club Capri, 36 Cleveland Street Thorold. Remarks will begin at 2pm. Please feel free to share this information with others who may be interested in attending. The celebration will be a very informal event. There will be a few speakers highlighting several aspects of Preston's life. We do hope you will be able to join us to Celebrate and remember this remarkable and special man.
Online condolences can be shared at www.passfieldmortuary.ca