Peter Bostic

Peter Bostic, a beloved leader and advocate for the Long Beach community, passed away at the age of 68 from cancer on June 9, 2023. Despite battling health issues, Peter remained dedicated to his family and community until the very end.

Born on February 14, 1955, in New York, Peter's was adopted by Theodore and Olga Bostic and moved to California. He grew up in Los Angeles and attended Los Angeles High School before venturing on to UC Santa Barbara where he earned a bachelor's degree in physical education in 1977. Decades later, in 2018, he achieved a master's degree in education from Northcentral University.

Peter’s career started in 1984 when he became executive director of the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles and assisted in developing the Weingart Urban Center YMCA in South Central Los Angeles. He worked for the LA, San Francisco and Orange County YMCAs for 20 years, administrating youth and adult physical education and child care, employment, and camping programs.

Throughout his career, Peter also held various positions in nonprofit management, including executive director of the Long Beach Public Library Foundation and later served as executive director of Leadership Long Beach where he left an indelible mark on future leaders. Mayor Rex Richardson aptly described Peter as a "great civic leader" whose service and volunteerism transformed the community. Richardson, a product of Leadership Long Beach's class of 2010, personally experienced Peter's influence on his own leadership journey.

Peter also had extensive experience with community college districts, including San Jose City College, Cosumnes River College, Lake Tahoe Community College, Solano College and Santa Ana College. He retired from the LA Community College District in December 2022, where he served as a foundation development officer and advocate for Los Angeles Harbor College.

Peter's dedication extended beyond his jobs and was embedded in his everyday life. After retiring, he became president of the Blues Society along with Commissioner for Long Beach City Parks and Recreation to give back to Long Beach and bring people together through music.

But beyond his impressive professional achievements, Peter's infectious personality set him apart. An animated, joyful man, his mere presence could fill a room. He had an uncanny ability to find humor in any situation and was known for his repertoire of jokes that could make anyone laugh. Peter's love for people and his remarkable ability to connect with anyone endeared him to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His interactions were memorable, and his warm spirit brought joy to those around him. He was a true people person, and his genuine care for others left a lasting impact on countless lives.

Peter is survived by his wife of 43 years, Hiedy Bostic, his children Ashleigh Bostic and Anthony Dandridge, and his sisters Dawn Bostic and Maureen Truax. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and community spirit that will continue to inspire all those who follow in his footsteps.