The sadness in the science fiction and comics community at the loss of Peter David is both touching and encouraging. Touching because of the evident love in our community for Peter. Encouraging because many of the memories speak of how Peter’s work made them feel seen as a person due to his talent at creating characters that could be real people. Encouraging because many people speak of how Peter’s support for diversity and authenticity helped them decide to abandon their own shields and present their authentic selves to the world. Peter had a public voice and knew it, and he used his voice to help and support others whenever he could.
Peter was an icon, but a friendly and approachable one. He loved his fans and enjoyed listening to their thoughts and opinions about his work. Peter was generous with his time and talents at conventions. Peter would regularly volunteer to do additional panels after he reviewed his Farpoint Convention schedule. We always said yes, of course. You don’t turn down the opportunity to have a creator of Peter’s caliber speak at your events.
This photo was taken at Farpoint Convention 2014, where Peter was onstage speaking about his work and reading from his novel “Artful”. This was one year after Peter’s return to conventions in 2013 after his stroke, when he surprised everyone by arriving onstage for the Friday Opening Ceremonies. The joy at seeing Peter again after such a long illness uplifted the entire weekend.
Peter David’s legendary status in comics and science fiction, and his wonderful stories, will be a source of inspiration and joy for years to come. His wife Kathleen’s loving eulogy about Peter can be found on the fundraising site established 4 years ago to help the family with medical expenses.
