Rumson-raised Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School (RFH) Class of 1977 graduate Kevin Peek Eley passed away on Sept. 4 in Virigina. He was 64.  

“Kevin loved life, his family, his colleagues and being on the water with his many dear friends. He had a lifelong love of the water and never missed an opportunity to share that love with others. One of Kevin’s proudest achievements was his participation in the founding and running of Youth Sailing Virginia (YSV), a community sailing center in historic Fort Monroe.  YSV’s mission is to teach life skills to middle and high school youth and their families through sailing programs, which help to inspire learning, personal growth and leadership providing pathways for their future. Kevin lived life to the fullest with no regrets or deeds left undone.  He will live on through (his sons) George, Will and Henry who embody his passion for the water, love of the mountains and kindness to all.
Kevin will be deeply missed by all who knew him.”

Loved ones of Kevin Peek Eley in his obituary

The son of Virginia von Schilling and Claud Erambert Eley Jr., Kevin was raised in Rumson as a child. The family relocated for a few years and returned for Kevin’s high school years. He was known by Rumson and RFH friends as “very smart, a great friend to many and lover of his CJ5 and CJ7 (Jeeps),” friend David Stark said.

After graduating from RFH, Kevin graduated from Maine Maritime Academy and embarked on a 42-year seafaring career, circling the globe. He attained a master of Ocean Steam and Motor Vessels of Any Gross Tons license. Kevin joined McAllister Towing as a tug captain in 1991 and in 1992 began his career as a docking pilot where he served as president of Independent Docking Pilots, Inc. He was called Captain Kevin.

Kevin is survived by: his loving wife of 31 years, Sue Manley Eley; his beloved sons, George, Will and Henry; his sister, Prentiss “Kix” Nottebohm, (Tommy); his brother, Lex Eley (Beth); sister-in-laws Patty Manley (Eric); Nan Moss and many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

A memorial service will be held at St. John’s Episcopal Church, Hampton, VA, on Saturday, Sept. 9 at 11 a.m.  A Celebration of Life will follow at Hampton Yacht Club.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Youth Sailing Virginia, 381 P.O. Box 3386, Hampton, VA 23663, would be appreciated.

— Edited obituary prepared by family

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