Peter James Colverson, environmental educator, communicator and enthusiast, peacefully passed away Oct. 2, 2016, after his battle with a debilitating disease. He is survived by sons Colin Douglas Colverson (Oak Ridge, TN);  and Aaron Joseph Colverson (Gainesville, FL), former wife Kathleen Earl Colverson; brothers Allen and John Colverson, (England); daughter-in-law Sherith, grandson Everett and many nephews and nieces.
Born Aug. 1, 1954, and raised in Midhurst, West Sussex, England by Arthur Leslie and Doreen Joan Frida Colverson, Pete was the youngest of the three brothers. Pete met his future wife at Goldsmiths College, London and returned with Kathy to the United States where they were married. Colin and Aaron were born shortly after and were the light of his life and focus of his efforts for the years to come. Pete became a naturalized US citizen in 1991, and maintained strong ties to England. Peter taught biology and environmental science at several colleges, and was a favorite teacher for many of his students. After academia, he worked and volunteered for several nonprofit organizations and consulting firms in environmental education and interpretation.
From the jungles of Honduras to the plains of Kenya, from the mountains of Ecuador to the highlands of Scotland and all across the United States, Pete leaves a gentle wake of nurturing happiness and cherished memories. His love of life, his passion for the natural world and his infectious smile were felt by all he came in contact with. He is dearly missed.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Alachua Conservation Trust for a special project in Pete’s honor at alachuaconservationtrust.org or contact Tom Kay at [email protected].