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Peter Samuelson Obituary

SAMUELSON, Peter Fenn
Left us in his sleep on December 17, 2005 with his daughter Mary by his side. Peter was born in San Francisco on September 14, 1935 and was a long-time resident of Oakland, CA.
Peter attended California College of Arts and Crafts (CCAC) in Oakland, CA where he studied graphic arts, then decided to switch to fine art. He received his degree in 1959. During this time, some of Americas greatest artists either graduated or taught at CCAC. The Oakland Six were his contemporaries.
A rather shy and unassuming man, he found promoting his work to be the part of art he didnt care for. Instead, he landed a job as a store manager of Alberts Art Supplies, where he became the official custom framer. Later, he inherited the business from Pat Bruno and renamed the store Alberts Picture Frame Shop.
Remembering the early and tough days of being an artist, he was legendary for helping students from CCAC and any other emerging artists. Often providing them with materials and framing for their art shows at no cost until their work sold. This sometimes left him short on cash but always optimistic about their current and future success. Over the years, his selection of European moldings was unparalleled. Artists sought his experienced eye for detail and color, and finding just the right materials for their art.
Peter is survived by his daughter Mary Samuelson Nisson, stepdaughter Sharan Simkins Belo, grandson David Mark Nisson, The Gang (schools chums), friends and customers he so delighted in knowing. Special thanks to all his caregivers and the staff at Emerald Gardens and to Dr. Janskowski.
A memorial and celebration will be held on Saturday, June 3, 2006 at 10:30am in Sebastopol, CA. Please call 707-874-9636 for more details.
In lieu of flowers, a gift to California College of Arts and Crafts, or the charity of your choice, is preferred.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Sacramento Bee from Jun. 1 to Jun. 2, 2006.

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Lawrence Fawcett

May 3, 2024

Nice write up and so true about Pete's selfless nature.From 1979 to 1985 Pete let me use the upstairs storage area of his shop there on Broadway and 42 .I put in a working darkroom and was able to print large prints up to 30x 40. Mostly using the space after hours .when he offered me the space he had it set up with a little mattress and resting area.I don't recall what I paid him but it couldn't have been more than 60$ a month . And yes , his framing prices were very reasonable and yes he did a trade for one of my large pieces which really was " Pure Pete" selflessness. Was heartbreaking to see him lose that space and then slowly lose his client base.I had moved away and lost everyday communication with him but did visit a few times his Emeryville shop where his health quickly deteriorated due to his dementia. A true gem , I am sure many folks out there still think of him from time to time. And Remember him and Bouregard and his two V.W vehicles the red bug and van. Love you Pete .Rest in Peace.

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