It’s heartbreaking to lose Pete. My condolences go out to the Yantzer family and to all the people whose lives he touched. Working with Pete was an adventure. We battled the front lines together, we worked on the makings of new patents together, and we discussed ‘the singularity.’ But no matter what, in Pete’s world, it was always a ‘great day to be alive.’ Let’s honor that and stay positive and compassionate for one another. For Pete.
No words can express the sadness I am feeling today for a friend and mentor of almost 40 years. Peter was a humble genius, scientist, researcher, lover of life, music, and, of course, the Quantum Theory! He had that "It" factor when he walked in the room! My condolences to his daughters, many, many friends, and students he has mentored through the years! Pete, I miss you so much!
This is truly sad news. Peter was special. Calm and considered. He helped us all for as long as I care to remember. Well done, Peter. Well done.
Peter was such an outstanding individual. He always inspired me and brightened my day when we got together to visit. His mind and his way of thinking were truly amazing to see in action. As Chair of the AGS Diamond Cut Grading Committee, I had the privilege of working side by side with him during the development of the new Diamond Grading system.
I admire Pete’s pursuit of advancement and refinement. Changing an entire industry for the better could have been enough to hang his hat. Instead, he was always looking to do it better, to expand ray tracing to other shapes and to provide education to jewelers and consumers alike. Every time I’d see him, he’d launch into the latest idea or technology he was working on and said it in a way I could understand! We’ll miss you, Pete!
Peter was a legend, and I’m so grateful to have grown up in this industry learning from the best and the brightest! May you rest in peace, knowing you have left a legacy. Let’s CELEBRATE his beautiful life and all that he did for us!!!
Such sad news, prayers, and heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. One could not ask for a better friend and instructor than Pete Yantzer. Pete has been a brilliant friend since 1974, when he was an instructor to my class at GIA in New York. We shared good times on a class gemological field trip, at a golf tournament, during a barbecue at his house, and in the lab. A true gentleman and all-around good guy that I will never forget. Rest in peace, dear friend.
Very sorry to hear of Pete's passing. He was always super positive and quick to laugh, just an all-around great guy. I consider myself lucky to have known him and worked with him at AGS.