Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Lamar Peckham Obituary
February 10, 1945 - May 23, 2024
Lamar Peckham, 79, beloved husband and father passed away peacefully May 23, 2024 with his wife, Polly, by his side after a brief battle with cancer.
Lamar is remembered for his deep love and commitment to his family and faith, his unshakable integrity, his adoration for his dogs, and his love of the banjo, camping, hiking, and whitewater rafting. Lamar navigated his life with decency, kindness, devotion, and grace. For those left behind, he is deeply missed.
Born in Southern California, his family moved to Petaluma, CA when he was 9 years old. He graduated from Petaluma High School, Sonoma State University, and Empire College School of Law. As a former "hippie" he lived on a commune before he became an owner of a local nursery, then a journalist and, finally, an attorney at law. As one of the "original" immigration attorneys in the area, for over 35 years he advised thousands of immigrants and helped them become lawful residents and US citizens.
Lamar is survived by his wife Polly Peckham; daughter Kaela PerLee-Peckham; daughter Ruth Edwards, son-in-law Gary Edwards, granddaughter Madeleine Edwards, grandson Sullivan Edwards; stepson Ben PerLee; granddaughter Susannah Leon; and other family members. He was preceded in death by his parents Walter and Thelma Peckham.
Lamar's family is planning a memorial service to be held July 14, 2024. The family requested that donations be made to the Sonoma County Humane Society.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Lamar Peckham
Gary Danskin
June 1, 2025
I never got to meet Lamar though i´d heard stories of him. i used to take care of his folks pool looks like they left a great legacy. sorry for your loss family he´s with the Lord now. RIP Lamar
Christopher Kerosky
June 30, 2024
Lamar was a true advocate for his clients and I respected his work greatly.
Although I didn´t know him well, I was aware that Lamar cared deeply for his clients, fought for them in court and through the USCIS process, and treated them with kindness, respect and dedication. I know he was a great friend of the Mexican community, in particular, and that he helped so many Mexican immigrants in our community.
His legacy, among others, is all those here whose lives he changed.
Todd Fletcher
June 14, 2024
I had the good fortune to work with Lamar on multiple occasions during the past 10-15 years related to the deportation of families and their children to Mexico based on their legal status. He was a staunch supporter fighting for the rights of families trying to attain citizenship. I always found he and his staff to be incredibly kind, dedicated and committed to this pursuit. I know his daughter will continue his legacy advocating on behalf of those who seek their counsel. My condolences to the family, co-workers and friends who loved and respected this man of character.
John Chance
June 12, 2024
Lamar and I were friends in 8th grade at the old Petaluma Junior High, and then in 9th grade at Kenilworth Junior High. He was one of my few friends then. I had m career as an ESL teacher. Glad to see he was able to help so many, and had such a wonderful life.
David Bolling
June 12, 2024
Damn it Lamar, I was getting ready to put together a Tuolumne trip, and I was planning to sue Dave Sharpe and probably Joel Rabune, and I needed you for both things. Oh well. You served me and the News-Herald nobly for years as the best reporter ever to translate the maunderings of the SoCo Board of Supervisors. I was always proud to be part of your whitewater education. I loved your dry sense of humor. And although I haven't seen you in years I find myself really missing you. The world was enriched with you in it.
Annie Daniel
June 12, 2024
I'll miss you. Thx for the
whiteriver rafting adventures.
David Dunn
June 10, 2024
He was a real gentleman.
Gary Danskin
June 7, 2024
Greeting Lamar i did not get the pleasure to meet you boy you look like your dad. i had the privledge of servicing their pool. with that got to learn about your folks. GREAT people your dad was my wifes counselor at school. Family i am sorry for your loss. RIP Lamar
Cindy Conners
June 6, 2024
I was so sad to see that Lamar has died. Although I haven't seen him in years his legacy will live on for absolutely sure. Our paths would cross numerous times at the courthouse and he was such a a gentle great guy who fought for the underdogs in trying to make a difference and definitely did. I'd referred numerous clients to him on immigration matters and he was the Gold Standard in this county treating all with such respect and care and fought so hard for everyone. You will be missed Lamar but not forgotten, you made a difference. RIP and condolences to his family.
Debbie
June 5, 2024
Lamar, thank you for the love and devotion you showed my old friend, Polly. I pray for her and the family as they continue this life without you.
Fabiola Aguirre
June 4, 2024
Lamar, was a great man, boss and dad figured. He taught me so much. He was one of the most honest attorneys I have ever known. He had a big heart. He gave a lot of his work way just to help the people. He was sweet. I remember his hugs that were one of the warmest ones and so sincere. He was a big part of my like and my family´s. Miss you Lamar.
Sandy Gilliom
June 4, 2024
Dearest Polly, I am so thankful God gave you this fine Christian man to walk through the days of life on this earth with. Remember all the memories and look forward to reuniting in Heaven. Blessings Sandy Gilliom
Connie & Russ Berringer
June 4, 2024
Lamar was one of the sweetest guys we knew. It was an honor and a privilege to know him. He will always be in our hearts.
Connie & Russ
Dené Carroll
June 4, 2024
What a beautiful summary or a life that can´t be captured by words. We will miss you, Uncle Lamar, and I will always remember your wise words and advice.
Showing 1 - 14 of 14 results
Make a Donation
in Lamar Peckham's name
Memorial Events
for Lamar Peckham
How to support Lamar's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Lamar Peckham's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
