The Brock University community is mourning the loss of second-year Physics student Peter Earl Joseph Ricciardi, who passed away Thursday, Oct. 20 after a battle with cancer. He was 27.

In his obituary, Ricciardi’s family describes him as a “gentle, fun-loving young man, who was smart, witty, patient with a kind soul. He emanated happiness and calmness. He showed immense courage and ‘polite obstinance’ during his battle with cancer.”

Brock lowered its flags to half-mast in honour of Ricciardi Monday, Oct. 24, the day of his funeral service.

Among his many passions and interests, Ricciardi loved food, cooking, computers, technology, Star Trek, dogs and exploring the mysteries of space and the universe.

“Peter was a bright student with a real penchant for Math and Physics. He navigated tough lab and theory courses at the height of the pandemic with really top marks,” said Department Chair and Professor of Physics Thad Harrou. “This is a big loss for Brock, the department and science.”

Ricciardi was pursuing his degree at Brock but had to put his studies on hold last fall due to his health.

“Our Faculty is family and losing a student brings great sadness to our students, faculty members and staff,” said Ejaz Ahmed, Dean of Brock’s Faculty of Mathematics and Science. “I know Peter would have made an excellent contribution to physics and science, and he will greatly be missed.”