In Memoriam: The KZN skate scene loses a legend – RIP Peter Aitken (19.10.1987 – 05.10.2024)

On the 18th of October 2024, family, friends, and colleagues gathered at the Durban Skatepark to celebrate the life of Peter Aitken— an absolute legend within the local skate community and graffiti scene. Known as ‘Peet Skeet’, ‘Pete Skyf’, ‘Peter Pan’, and simply ‘P’ among many other affectionate nicknames, Peter was adored by all who knew him and will be sorely missed.

Words by Carmen Gee. Photos by Andre Swart, Louis John van Rooyen and memorial photos by Joshua Cronje.

Upon arrival at the park, colourful pamphlets— filled with Peter’s artworks and photos of him throughout his life— were handed out to attendees by his family members. A striking portrait of Peter smoking a cigarette was hung up on the railings. A Winston Red in his leather-gloved hand.

Prolific graffiti artists, PEOPLE, RULES, SPOOK and DAMN VANDAL, painted epic memorial pieces for their boet EYOS while people milled around and exchanged stories. The deep rumbles of motorcycle engines could be heard in the distance as Peter’s colleagues from Harley-Davidson and other biker buddies made their way to the beachfront park. Thick clouds darkened the sky. Waves rolled off the piers.

Emily de Almeida, Peter’s sister, gave a moving speech about how proud she was to have had Peter as a brother and how much he meant to her. 

“I have a lifetime of memories with and of you and on those days where I can’t see the light and my heart is aching, please remind me of them one by one so I can smile remembering all the magic we shared,” said Emily. “You’ve made it home, now save us a seat, Pete. We’ll see you on the other side. Give ‘em hell,” she concluded. 

Next, various friends took to the mic to share anecdotes of Peter’s life, many of which included the outlandish antics and hilarious catchphrases Pete was best known for. Tears flowed. 

Attendees were encouraged to write their names on Peter’s skateboard (an Element bought by his mom Vivien) and take him for one last ride around the park. Such a fitting idea, and an indication of just how well his family knew him. No dreary church service for Peter Aitken. A game of S.K.A.T.E was played in his honour, with prizes sponsored by Khulu Dlamini. Stickers with Pete’s art were given out, with the intention of us sticker bombing the city streets… he would have approved.

Photo by Louis John van Rooyen.

The sheer number of people that gathered at the park on the 18th of October (one day before Pete’s 37th birthday) served as a small indication of the many lives he touched. The congregation was filled with everyone from inked-up tattoo artists to elderly former neighbours. Peter could find common ground with almost anyone and would often have deep, meaningful conversations with complete strangers. Even if you’d just spoken to him for a few minutes, he was someone who you would never forget. He made an impact.

Despite his hard exterior (which boasted tattoos of phrases like ‘Don’t Ask Silly Questions’ and ‘Tsek’), Peter had a heart of gold and a true love for animals, exemplified by his dedication towards his rescue cat, Chippy.

Pete was the type of guy who’d share his last gwaai with you. He’d push you to land that skate trick you’d been trying for months and was an unofficial skate coach to many. He had a way with words and could invoke tears of laughter with just one simple story. He was the type of guy everyone wanted to be around because of the way he made you feel truly alive. 

Peter’s infectious energy will be sorely missed. Ballito Bowl.

As a multi-faceted and exceptionally talented individual, an entire book series could be written about Pete’s character and adventures. He just had that enigmatic ability to inspire.

May Peter’s spirit live on in the people he loved, the epic graffiti he painted all over the country, the hip-hop music blasting through our speakers, and the distant roar of motorbikes with wide-open throttles. 

You gave it horns. We’ll miss you chom.

“To understand light

One must know dark

To understand life

One must now depart

To understand war

One must throw darts

Raiding the covenant’s ark”