Remembering Raphael de Peyer
Raphael de Peyer, one of the co-founders of Best Friends, was instrumental in the development of Best Friends in its early days.
Raphael was born in England and grew up in Reigate, a small town in Surrey, England, in a house that was usually full of dogs. He attended public schools and then London University School of Architecture.
When Best Friends began, he used his architectural background to participate in the design of buildings alongside co-founder Paul Eckhoff, who had gone to the same school of architecture back in England. He also fundraised, as everyone had to do back when every bowl of dog food depended on it. In addition, he developed a talent for PR — arranging radio and television appearances for Best Friends, so we could get the word out about the work taking place for the animals.
He was a stellar grant writer, and one of his great early achievements included the securing of a $200,000 matching grant that would enable Best Friends to own the canyon that cradled the animals who took refuge there following a near-death event foreclosure on the property. Everyone rallied together and got that money. The purchase of the canyon was then complete — a huge moment in the history of Best Friends and a huge relief for the young organization.
Raphael was a reflective person — keenly observant, curious about what’s below every surface, and good at thinking on his feet. He could be charming, but there was a little bite to his sense of humor.
His interest in architecture blossomed into an interest in photography once he arrived at the Sanctuary. And he took some stunning pictures, immortalizing the natural beauty of the area. He always tried to capture both the physical and spiritual nature of what he was photographing.
Raphael died suddenly in 2003, leaving behind his wife, Jana de Peyer; two children; a stepson; and a house full of dogs he loved. His legacy will always live on in the canyon.
