Sailing News

Peter Weeden

It is with regret that Navtec announce that Pete Weeden, longstanding North European Sales Manager, sadly passed away at home in Sarisbury Green, Southampton, on Saturday 10^th October 2009 after a short battle with cancer.

In charge of the Norsemann Gibb and wire product lines for the Navtec group, Pete moved to Havant in Hampshire to head up the sales for Navtec North Europe in 1993. He was always keen to share his extensive technical knowledge with customers and colleagues, which was built through many years of experience.

Pete’s career in the marine industry spanned a period of 46 years, during which time he worked for Norsemann Gibb, Sparcraft, Barient, Barlow Gibb, Hunter Boats and Baron Instruments.

He began his career at Sparlight, one of the top spar makers in the world. As a junior salesman – and later, a sales manager – Pete sold spars to some of the top race and cruising boats of the time.

Pete split his time between his much-loved family – wife Kal and two daughters, Sophie and Zoe – and a huge passion for sailing, racing yachts at national and international level. Notable successes included representing the UK in three Admiral’s Cup teams, the Southern Cross Series and UK Onion Patch team – sailing the only non-American boat ever to win the Newport Bermuda Race. He was also a class winner at Cowes on six occasions where he picked up the Britannia Cup twice and the New York Yacht Club Trophy three times.

Pete was one of the marine industry’s great characters; having a keen opinion on politics at all times and always taking the time to strike strong relationships with customers and colleagues. He remained dedicated to the task even while ill and will be sorely missed throughout the industry worldwide.

The funeral service will be held in the South Chapel at Portchester Crematorium on Thursday 22^nd October at 12.00. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to local children’s hospice, Naomi House. Cheques should be made payable to ‘Wessex Children’s Hospice Trust’ and donation envelopes will be provided at the service. For information about online and postal donations please visit www.naomihouse.org.uk .

Back