My Uncle Peter's Obituary

Peter William Kemp passed away on Friday, November 6, 2009. He entered our lives on May 23, 1950 in Denver, Colorado. One of five children born to Elizabeth Kemp and the late Charles Kemp, he was full of energy and joy. In 1960 the Kemp family moved to Salt Lake City, Utah and Peter graduated from Olympus High School where he lettered in varsity football and swimming. As a defensive end he earned the nickname “Snake” for his ability to slither through any play and stop his opponents. During his senior year of high school he held the Utah State record in the 50 freestyle. Upon graduation he attended The University of Utah before joining the band, Rocky Mountain Splendor. He could play the piano, trumpet and guitar but was best known as an outstanding drummer who could bring life to any jam.

In August of 1970 he moved briefly to Santa Cruz, California with then girlfriend Debbie Smith. He and Debbie returned to Utah and were married on December 30, 1970. Two years later, on September 17, 1972, they welcomed son Isaac to their lives

In 1980, shortly after his parents and youngest siblings, Patti and Dave, moved to California Peter moved to Santa Clara as well. He immediately entered the business of concrete working briefly at Adorno Construction Co. before beginning a career at Borns Concrete Construction where he worked for nearly 30 years progressing from a finisher to a foreman to the company estimator and manager.

On September 17, 1982 Peter married Kathleen Malloy. Kathy gave birth to daughter Taralee on January 20, 1984. Although, Kathy and Peter were later divorced they remained great friends.

Many remember Pete as a favorite golf companion who always played “ready golf”. He was also an avid fisherman, known to exclaim “we got fish fever!” on his way out to the stream. He last fished at Lake Del Valle with his brother Dave in August and joyfully caught two trout. Peebo was also a loyal San Francisco 49ers fan. His favorite player was Joe Montana.

Peter will be remembered for his loyalty to family and his unique sense of humor. He is survived by mother, Elizabeth Kemp. Children Isaac Dylan Kemp and Taralee Ann Kemp Adams. Daughter-in-law Nicole Ruth Kemp. Son-in-law Christen Mark Adams. Grandchildren Peter Jacob Kemp and Dylan Erik Kemp. Siblings Nancy Holly Kemp, Thomas Alexander Kemp, David Daniel Kemp and Patricia Elizabeth Livingston in addition to a host of beloved nieces, nephews, family and friends.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, November 13, 2009 from 2:30 to 5:30 PM at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Santa Clara, Bayshore Room at 5101 Great America Parkway. In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the American Heart Association.