Kimberly Reeves Jan 28 #33076

Today our paddling community lost a giant. We lost a friend, coach, mentor.. the glue that kept us together and reminded us to give back to the greater Bellingham community. Peter Marcus was so many things to all of us and our community will miss him dearly. Maybe we can use this venue to post our thoughts, memories, stories about Peter that enriched our lives.

See you in the stars dear friend ❤️

Brandon Nelson Jan 28 #33078

Peter Marcus has no equal, and I will forever remember him as one of the most giving and selfless people I have ever met. He was the ultimate force multiplier of our paddling community, and every one of us is better for having known him. His amazing daughters are a fitting legacy for a man that was bigger than life.

Rest in peace, Peter. You will always be loved.

Brandon Nelson (from my iPhone) 360-319-0696

allipp@…Jan 28 #33079

Agreeing with Brandon. Peter did more for paddling around here than anyone. Not even close. Aloha Peter, you will be missed.

Reivers Dustin Jan 28 #33080

Heard this morning that he was moved to hospice facility - given a short time left. I have not heard more. But for several weeks I've been looking at all that he was to what we are. It's hard to realize the whole thing. Part of the deal here is maybe people think I had an influence in making this group … I dunno, more of a group. That big, quiet man did more than me by far.

It feels too raw right now to put a lot of stuff on this group site. It feels like a pause would be more respectful of his team that has worked so hard to carry him through this time. I'm thinking of his daughters, his close people. I'm grieving, but nothing like his circle who knew before I did what was being lost.

rd

Jonas Ecker Jan 28 #33081

Peter will truly be missed.
He played such a big part in all of our paddling journeys and all of us are better for have knowing him. I am thankful for everything Peter has done and we will be feeling his impact forever.

Jonas Ecker

David Scherrer Jan 28 #33082

Rest in pease old friend. A generous and big hearted fellow. Sharing with us the love of the sea and sky. This clear beautiful day, an ode to your sprit.

Denise Weeks Jan 28 #33084

Peter welcomed me (and Paul) into this community and was always so encouraging and supportive. I am blown away thinking about all that he did for paddling and paddlers over the years—well before we came along. How will we stop looking for his truck in the parking lot? As Reivers said, it is hard to put it all into words right now. I look forward to hearing stories and laughing with all of you when we can gather to celebrate his life.

Here’s one fine memory out of a gazillion you all must have. Clean shaven!

Michael Lee Jan 28 #33085
Well said, Brandon. We are so fortunate that Peter lived his life among us. He made our community a better place.

Rest in peace.

ewermus@…Jan 28 #33086

I was and still am amazed by how many events and traditions Peter created throughout the year. Heavy heart.

Michael Gregory Jan 28 #33087

So many memories of Peter over the years. One in particular. I’d showed up for a Paddle For Food race, shortly after a big life stressor, feeling dazed. Peter, without hesitation, said “we’re partners today Mike”. That’s our true champion.

May the wind always be at your back my water brother. MG

beau whitehead Jan 29 #33090

Posting this for Pete Wells:

Whatcom Paddlers:
I just wrote my nieces Heidi & Kari informing them of Peter's passing. He coached them when they swam for the Bayside Swim Club while they were in middle school. They both loved sports, and competed in swimming and basketball at Sehome, and continued with basketball all the way through college. So I was impressed when Kari once mentioned that of those that coached her all through those seasons, it was Peter who really made her want to be at her best.
So while I was impressed with this compliment to Peter… after I thought about it, it really was no surprise. Isn't that what he instilled in us all…. to be our best! Peter may have passed away, but what he left us with will make us better for as long as we carry on. I will miss him dearly.
-Pete Wells

Tom Swetish Jan 29 #33091

A few years ago, Scoggins took me out on a flatwater slog on the bay. On the way back, I was suffering and questioning my life choices when a big aluminum boat pulled up and with perfect position and perfect speed, set up a wave train for us for us to ride. As we surfed back to the harbor, occasionally Peter would come out from the wheelhouse, look back at us, take a sip of coffee, and smile.

Pretty sure there’s a metaphor in there somewhere.

Paul Reavley Feb 1 #33092

Peter had more irons in our community fires than I can even count. Then he also had his work, liked to compete, and seemed to keep a watchful eye on the bay particular when it was rough.

Here are a few memorable examples that were reported on Whatcom Paddlers:

Peter rescuing kayakers on the bay: https://surfski.wiki/stories/yeah_ve_been_kayak_before

Peter and his company's contribution to the Deepwater Horizon cleanup: https://surfski.wiki/stories/deephorizon_2010

Peter's excellent account of racing across the Pailolo channel : https://surfski.wiki/races/pailolo_challenge_2018

Kevin Olney Feb 1 #33093

We have all been saddened by the loss of one of our dearest members. Peter was at the heart of this community. His kindness and encouragement welcomed so many new paddlers. His determination and fortitude inspired his peers and rivals.

Beyond being a fierce competitor, he was an organizer, a teacher and a leader. Peter was a big influence on me as a paddler and as a person. I’m grateful to have spent time with him on the water and in life.

I hope everyone will continue to share their thoughts and stories about Peter here on the message board. I know everyone processes things in their own way. For me it was a lot of reflection and remembrance in solitude at first. Once I was ready, I was able to open up and feel the emotions everyone else was going through. Being able to connect with and support each other is a blessing we have in our paddling community.

One more note, I think it’s ok to talk about other topics too. Discussing VHFs, or new GPS watches, or stroke technique videos won’t trivialize Peter’s memory. His legacy will remain firmly embedded in Whatcompaddlers tradition for years to come.

Cheers Peter Marcus, you will never be forgotten