On Sunday, February 26, 2017, Peter Adrian van der Vate passed away peacefully at his home in Fairfax, Virginia. Pete, son of Jan and Harriett van der Vate, succumbed after a long battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife Fran and their daughter Sarah van der Vate, and by his first wife, Margaret Dodd Ritter, and their children, Jan van der Vate, Susan van der Vate Friese and Elizabeth van der Vate. He is also survived by his sister, Barbara van der Vate, and four grandchildren.
Pete enjoyed a fulfilling car racing career, winning two SCCA National Championships. He subsequently opened and operated his own car repair shop for more than 25 years, before retiring. He loved learning how things worked, was a voracious reader and a great friend to everyone who knew him. He loved long drives on winding country roads while listening to anything from Zydeco to Bluegrass, as well as spending time at Virginia International Raceway. To his family and many friends in the sport, Vintage Racecar extends its deepest sympathies.
Very sad to hear about Peter. I spent many an hour at and around his shop hunting up Alfa parts. He was always helpful and one of the most knowledgeable Alfa guys around.
Had the honor of working for him 11 years as a tech in his shop and soon became good friends with Pete and Fran. A smart and patient person for sure. We always overcame any problems, whether it be mechanical or personal. Even when i moved to Richmond, he would always stop by on his trips to and from V.I.R. to talk, maybe a beer. Miss you my friend. Vernon Hall