Peter Chevalier

Peter Chevalier passed away unexpectedly in his vineyard, which was also home, overlooking Lake Mendocino on the morning of Tuesday, July 30th.

A native to northern California, Peter’s life would move him around the western US as he pursued opportunities in the agriculture industry. Born in San Rafael, Peter’s family soon moved to the town of Sonoma. It was there that he would meet, and one day marry, his childhood sweetheart, Lynn Lennon. Peter and Lynn would eventually call Ukiah their home in 1974. Together, they journeyed through the twists and turns of life side by side, grappling 58 years of challenges and triumphs along the way.

Peter’s love of the outdoors and horses started at a young age on his family’s farm and led him to obtain a BS Degree in agriculture from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. As a career advisor and advocate for pear and wine grape growers, Peter worked tirelessly to ensure healthy crops and success for his clients, peers, and the local industry. In doing so, he garnered many lifelong relationships and friendships within Mendocino County and beyond. He served on the board of the Mendocino County Farm Bureau and the Mendocino Wine Commission, ultimately being honored with the prestigious “Zeni Award” from Mendocino Winegrowers for agricultural excellence and community service. 

He also donated time towards his children’s interests: expanding youth soccer leagues in Ukiah, coaching youth sports, and supporting whatever new hobby branched out along the way in their lives. In 1997, Peter and his two sons discussed starting a vineyard management company, and when Nicolas passed, Peter II graduated from Fresno State and returned to Ukiah. Soon after, Peter’s dream became a reality and Chevalier Vineyard Management was born. 

Physical pain from lifelong health challenges never diminished his resilient spirit or work ethic. Pain took the backseat, and his family always remained front and center. His quirky habits, kind smile and joyous laugh barely scratch the surface of all the positive attributes he bestowed upon the world. Lynn, then his three children: Peter (Jode), Nicolas, and Dominique (Scott) - and later still, three grandchildren - Chloe, Savannah, and Adelaide were his everything and made him a very proud husband, father, and “Bacca”. The stories are endless and will long be told, but all will include at their core, a sweet, selfless wonderful man who did everything possible for his family and community.

Please come celebrate his life with family and friends at Rivino Winery (4001 Rivino Ranch Rd, Ukiah CA 95482) on Sunday August 11th from 2:00-5:00 pm. Please feel free to donate in his honor to your favorite charity.