Protecting What He Loved
Bequest from Peter Noone
Peter Kinnoch Noone embodied the down-to-earth style of the outdoor industry and is credited with shaping the development of the outdoor retail store as a commercial force, customer refuge and the forefront for the protection of wilderness. He laid the foundation for his career by skiing, climbing and fly-fishing his way out of the University of Utah. This and his innate business acumen prepared him to run the influential Ski Hut in Berkeley, an unofficial gathering spot for the Bay Area’s seminal climbing, outdoor and environmental communities. In 1983, Peter took a big leap southward to join Patagonia where he worked in various executive roles and as a consultant for more than 35 years, until, and through his last illness. He was a frequent flier, traveling the country and the world in search of perfect spots for the extensive roster of Patagonia retail and operations locations, always happily returning to the quiet, rustic beauty of Ojai.
Peter’s gruff exterior—most of his overtures to conversation began with a complaint—belied an uncompromising sense of honor, sharp sense of justice, respect for the dignity of others, a generous helping hand to those in need, and desert-dry sense of humor. He was enthralled by the natural history of the places he loved: the Sierra, southern Utah along Route 12, Silver Creek near Sun Valley and his beloved Ojai. Birding and fly fishing remained lifelong avocations. He spent his later summers in a perfectly appointed, specially tricked out Airstream at Riverside Camp, slot 2a, within earshot of Henry’s Fork.
A natural lone wolf, Peter found a strong community of friends in Ojai. Being outside was important to him and when he wasn’t traveling or fly-fishing he enjoyed golfing at the Ojai Valley Inn where he could stir up a little trouble, revel with his cronies and look at birds. He held dear the natural elements and open space that give the Ojai Valley its unique character and sought to preserve them. He confirmed his trust and support of the stewardship of the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy by leaving an endowment gift.
Peter passed away on July 9, 2018 at the age of 75. A celebration of his life was fittingly held at the OVLC Steelhead Preserve in late September. Two rehabilitated barn owls were released in his honor by the Ojai Raptor Center, another of his favorite local organizations.
Do you want to leave a legacy for the Ojai Valley? Join our Pushing Up Poppies Legacy Giving Club.
Questions? Contact Tania at tania@ovlc.org or (805) 649-6852 x 6
