In Memory of Peter Van Name
“I think that we owe generations to come to preserve the cultural experience that’s been around for centuries.” – Peter Van Name
The New West Symphony family deeply mourns the loss of our valued and longstanding board member and friend, Peter Van Name (5/15/1957 – 6/24/2022). Born in Nyjack, New York, and raised in Chicago with three other siblings, Peter is survived by his wife Rain, his mother, and two brothers, Paul Van Name and Alex Edwards.
Peter was a dearly loved supporter of New West Symphony and served as an active board member for over 20 years. When the Symphony launched the Los Angeles Regional Board, Peter served as the Vice President of that region for almost a decade.
Peter was a knowledgeable appreciator of classical music and loved collecting guitars. Occasionally he would share a story about his former career in Rock & Roll. Subsequently, he had a successful career in finance as Senior Vice President of Wealth Management with Merrill Lynch.
When asked why he supported the Symphony, he would often say that classical music needed benefactors who would help preserve the cultural experiences for generations to come. Peter and his beautiful wife Rain attended numerous events and fundraisers for New West Symphony throughout the years, and through personal contributions and matching donations have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the Symphony’s programs, making his dream possible.
Rain has requested donations in Peter’s memory be sent in support of Laby Harmony Project.
Laby Harmony project provides musical opportunity to children in underserved communities, currently serving over 150 students offering tuition-free, long-term, and high-quality musical opportunity in the heart of Ventura’s Westside.
Rest in peace, Peter. Thank you for being our cultural ambassador, and a friend to so many.
-Your friends at New West Symphony
Peter and fellow board member Lynn Ziman.
Peter and Rain.
Peter and Smokey Robinson at 2017 New West Symphony Gala.
Photography by Eugene Yankevich and Kenny Backer Photography.
As many already know, Peter was a valued member of the Board of Directors for 20 years+, and a valued friend to many of us at The New West Symphony. More importantly, at least for me, Peter was the most positive, caring, friendly soul I think I have ever met. I had the pleasure of speaking with him several weeks ago, and as hard as that was for me then, now I am so glad to have had that conversation. To Rain and family – please accept my condolences and know that if i can do anything please let me know
In memory of our dear friend and fellow NWS Board member Peter Van Name. Your wisdom, dedication, and kindness will be sorely missed by us all. My condolences to Rain and to all Peter’s friends and loved ones. Dr. Sam
Peter was a constant for the NWS.
Always involved, always supporting, in body and spirit.
His kind demeanor and quick wit will be sorely missed.
My deepest condolences to Rain and the rest of his family.
Peace,
Mark
Peter was very private despite his larger than life personality. I remember his comments at the board meetings regarding the organizational values, benefits of relationships and his love for music. We all lost a friend, and I lost a mentor. My condolences to Rain. I can only imagine the pain.
We were a very fortunate family to have Peter with us. Our summers in Brigantine were special. I especially remember their wedding on the beach and it was a perfect day. We will all miss him.