The San Diego Padres have shared the unfortunate news that the team's owner and chairman Peter Seidler has died at age 63.
San Diego Padres Chairman Peter Seidler passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning at the age of 63, after bravely battling an undisclosed illness for several months. He was surrounded by his loving wife and children. At this time, the family has requested privacy regarding the cause of his passing.
"The Padres organization mourns the passing of our beloved Chairman and owner, Peter Seidler," Padres CEO Erik Greupner said in a statement. "Today, our love and prayers encircle Peter’s family as they grieve the loss of an extraordinary husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. Peter was a kind and generous man who was devoted to his wife, children, and extended family. He also consistently exhibited heartfelt compassion for others, especially those less fortunate. His impact on the city of San Diego and the baseball world will be felt for generations. His generous spirit is now firmly embedded in the fabric of the Padres. Although he was our Chairman and owner, Peter was at his core a Padres fan. He will be dearly missed.”
For those wishing to pay their respects, Home Plate Gate at Petco Park will be open on Tuesday afternoon. Parking will be complimentary in the Tailgate Lot. While there's no public memorial scheduled yet, the Padres intend to honor Seidler during the 2024 season.
In light of this loss, the Padres organization will take the week to grieve, pausing all non-essential operations. The ongoing manager search will be temporarily halted, although a source has indicated that the new manager will be announced next week before the Thanksgiving holiday.
Despite battling health challenges, including his victorious fight against cancer, Seidler once expressed that the Padres would remain a legacy in his family for generations. On Tuesday, a source confirmed that this remains the plan.
Seidler's journey with the Padres began as a co-owner in 2012, where he swiftly became known for his deep commitment to the team's success both on and off the field. Seidler bought a majority stake of the Padres in November 2020. By doing so, he followed in the footsteps of his grandfather Walter O’Malley, who owned the Dodgers from 1950 to 1979 and moved them from Brooklyn to Los Angeles.
Under Seidler's stewardship, the Padres experienced a transformative era. Peter's strategic guidance and unwavering support propelled the team to new heights, instilling a sense of pride and hope within the fanbase. Beyond victories on the field, he was devoted to fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and community engagement within the organization.
Peter's impact extended far beyond the realm of sports. He was a philanthropist with a generous heart, actively involved in numerous charitable endeavors. His dedication to various causes, particularly those focused on healthcare and youth development, touched countless lives and exemplified his commitment to making a meaningful difference in the world.
A resilient soul, Peter faced health challenges with remarkable courage and grace. His valiant battle against illness showcased his unwavering determination and strength, serving as an inspiration to all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of passion, resilience, and unwavering devotion to his family. Peter's memory will forever be cherished by his beloved wife, children, extended family, friends, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched with his kindness and vision.
Though Peter Seidler has departed this world, his spirit will endure through the generations of Padres fans and within the very fabric of the team he so ardently loved. His impact on the game and the community will remain an eternal testament to his exceptional character and leadership. In honoring Peter's wishes, the family kindly asks for privacy during this time of mourning. Details regarding memorial services will be announced at a later date.
Rest in peace, Peter Seidler. Your legacy lives on in the hearts of all who had the honor of knowing you and in all San Diego Padres fans.
