Peter Stuart, a passionate racing enthusiast and dedicated community volunteer, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2025, in Santa Cruz, California, due to complications from Parkinson’s disease. He was 83 years old at the time of his death.
Born in 1942 in San Jose, California, Peter led a life marked by adventure, traveling the world as the child of a military officer. He later settled in Concord, California, where he spent over two decades before retiring to Santa Cruz.
Peter’s love for automobiles and racing defined much of his life. In the mid-1960s, he and a friend acquired a Lotus Type 22, a 1500cc open-wheeled Formula B race car, to compete in amateur races across the Bay Area. He actively participated in several racing clubs, including the Sports Car Club of America, which fostered his deep passion for motorsports.
A Pioneer of Mountain Biking and Community Service
In the early 1980s, Peter emerged as a pioneer of mountain biking in the regional and state parks of the Bay Area, particularly at Mt. Diablo. He shared his enthusiasm for the outdoors with his children, instilling in them a love for the natural beauty of northern California’s hills.
Peter’s professional career as a technical writer in Silicon Valley supported engineers in the defense contracting industry. Following his retirement, he dedicated his time to various community and nature conservation organizations, notably contributing to the long-term planning of the Concord Naval Weapons Station Reuse project. His efforts were crucial in ensuring that half of the more than 5,000 acres would remain as open parks for future generations to enjoy.
Peter enjoyed walking at all hours, often accompanied by his partner, Joyce Nicholson. He cherished these moments spent in nature, fostering his appreciation for the environment.
He is survived by his two children, Jennifer and Jonathan, alongside nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Peter’s impact on his family and community will be remembered fondly.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to honor Peter’s memory to consider planting a living memorial. His legacy of love for nature and motorsports will endure in the hearts of those who knew him.
