Peter Andrew Beers

Peter Andrew Beers was a generous soul who built his life around the things he valued. He demonstrated love for family and friends openly and often. He put his gifts of endurance strength and a versatile, open mind to good use. He was passionate about cycling and advocacy, and he had many great adventures.

Even as a child, Pete made bold choices when it came to fun. His scout trips involved elaborately orchestrated pyrotechnic displays. He jumped his bike over obstacles Evel Knievel-style. He skied, backpacked, and snowboarded in his native Colorado, where he went to Columbine High School. He ran with his college buddies on the Principia College track team, where he learned lessons about friendship. His adventures in mountaineering included an expedition up Mount Elbrus with a Soviet climbing team.

Cycling 100 miles to the beginning of a race or riding a fixie on terrain suited for a geared bike was classic Pete. He rode 450 miles from Boston to DC with pro cyclist Tim Johnson. He loved long distances, big hills, and leading rides. He participated in countless races and cycling events, often supporting and coaching teammates along the way. It is oddly fitting that Pete was riding his bike when he was struck and killed by a falling tree on August 30, 2020.

This passion for cycling was intertwined with his role as an advocate. Pete influenced localities to provide bike lanes and other resources. He persuaded cyclists to follow the rules of the road. He led inclusive rides that brought many into cycling. This involved working with Washington Area Bicycling Association and other advocacy organizations. Pete raised funds for youth cycling, gang prevention, and other causes.

At the bike shops where he worked, Pete took on the oddest repairs and quirkiest customers, demonstrating respect for all. He was a great service manager. His knowledge of cycling technology was incredible. He laughed with fellow mechanics about his ability to loosen seized bike parts that wouldn’t yield for others. His unique combination of physical strength and brains made this possible, although he downplayed both attributes.

Pete’s other profession for over 20 years was computer science. He worked at a small software firm and subsequently for SAP as a solution manager for public sector and commercial procurement solutions. His expertise and team spirit earned him the respect of colleagues and customers. During those years, Pete brought levity to the workplace and formed lasting friendships with co-workers. While computers were his college major, he also studied international politics at the University of Denver and anything else that captured his imagination.

Pete approached his interests with passion and skill. He taught himself about architectural photography and contributed photos of Frank Lloyd Wright structures to books and magazines. His website earned him invitations to Wright homes and behind-the-scenes tours. When in Montecarlo for a Tour de France stage, Pete was thrilled to warm up with professional cyclists as they prepared for the event. He was always an exuberant fan.

Among Pete’s defining characteristics was his generosity. He was free with his time and attention. He mentored young cyclists and helped teammates train. He gave impatient motorists the benefit of the doubt. This intentional expression of loving kindness for fellow humans stemmed from his faith.

Pete’s love for friends and family was also clear and enduring. His mother Lucy, brother David, extended family on both sides, and the family he married into mourn his loss. His wife Laura cherishes the memory of Pete’s fierce love and support. It is a comfort that, following his death, so many have spoken about him as a mentor, friend, and positive influence on their lives.

Pete Beers led a good and full life in the time he had, and we will miss him dearly.