Danville Cycling Event Benefiting the Late Pete Zucker

Pete Zucker appreciated the simple joys in life and was driven to excel in whatever he did, from his professional career to training for cycling events.

That's how his now widow wife, Monica Mazzocco-Zucker, describes her late husband that she first met 22 years ago when the two were college students.

Zucker,47, died from ALS, also known as Lou Gherig’s disease, on March 17.

Before his death, the For Pete's Sake! Danville Bike/Kovarus Club Kick Off Ride was organized with the proceeds going to the Pete Zucker Foundation, aimed at raising awareness for ALS and finding a treatment for the incurable disease.

The cycling event will be April 14 and will start at Danville Bike (175 Hartz Avenue) and registration is still open. You can register by going here.

Zucker himself was a cyclist, with his favorite race being the Diablo Challenge, which he could complete in less than ah hour.

"He loved riding and racing with his team, giving of himself, and working together as teammates for the success of another teammate," Monica said.

Zucker first started noticing ALS symptoms in 2009 and was diagnosed with the disease in March 2010. Though ALS robbed him of his physical attributes, Monica said it didn't stop him from enjoying life.

"I think many people have learned what is really important in life through Pete," Monica said. "If Pete could enjoy life in the state he was in, then what did they have to complain about. I have been told over and over how Pete has changed the lives of many families I know and don't know. Pete has changed me for the better, and I am sure our two boys will be better people because Pete was their dad. They have an incredible role model that they can be proud to say was their dad."

Zucker is survived by his wife and sons Ryan, 16, and Zachary, 13.

A celebration of Zucker's life will take place Friday at 1 p.m. at Cornerstone Fellowship Church in Livermore.