Stephen M. Peck
Stephen M. Peck | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date New York City, U.S. |
| Died | March 30, 2004 (aged 69) |
| Occupation(s) | Financier, philanthropist |
| Known for | Co-founder of Weiss, Peck & Greer |
Stephen M. Peck (February 2, 1935 – March 30, 2004) was an American financier and philanthropist, recognized as a co-founder of the asset management company Weiss, Peck & Greer.
Early life and education
Born into a Jewish household in New York City, Peck was the third offspring and the only son of Helen (née Epstein) and Barney Peck, who was a partner at a Wall Street brokerage and a member of the New York Stock Exchange. Barney Peck started his career as a runner for Herrick, Berg and Co. and was actively involved in youth charitable initiatives, notably supporting Camp Williams for disadvantaged children.
Peck completed his studies at the Fieldston School before obtaining a bachelor's degree in economics from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania.
Career
At the age of 21, while still attending college, Peck became the youngest individual ever to join the New York Stock Exchange, following his father’s purchase of a seat on his behalf. The two collaborated at Barney Peck & Son until Barney's sudden passing a year afterward. Subsequently, Peck established S.M. Peck & Company, with his mother participating as a limited partner.
In 1970, he partnered with Philip Greer and Roger and Stephen H. Weiss to launch the private investment firm Weiss, Peck & Greer. The firm specialized in investment management, private equity, venture capital, and clearing services. Managing assets worth more than $16.5 billion, it was acquired by Dutch asset manager Robeco in 1998. At age 36, in 1971, Peck was named vice chairman of the New York Stock Exchange’s board of governors.
Peck joined Saul Steinberg’s insurance enterprise Reliance Group Holdings as chief investment officer in 1985. He also held board positions at various corporations such as Tiger International Inc. and Advance Auto Parts, which was led by his college classmate Nicholas F. Taubman.
Philanthropy
A committed philanthropist, Peck dedicated over three decades to serving on the board of Mount Sinai Medical Center, including six years as chairman. Between 1985 and 1992, he chaired the board of the Jewish Theological Seminary of America. He was a significant contributor to his alma mater, Wharton, and played a leading role in supporting the UJA-Federation of New York, where he chaired its Wall Street Division. Alongside his wife Judy, Peck was instrumental in revitalizing the renowned Manhattan synagogue B'nai Jeshurun starting in the 1980s.
Personal life
Peck was married twice. His first wife, Barbara Peck (née Rubin), bore him three children: Bradford, Jennifer, and Suzanne Peck. His second marriage to Judith Stern Peck (previously married to Leonard N. Stern) added three stepchildren: Andrea, Emanuel, and Edward Stern. Jennifer Peck was wed to Craig Barnett, son of Victor Barnett and Helaine M. Barnett, prior to their divorce. All his children and stepchildren continue to observe the Jewish faith. Peck and Judy resided at The Dakota in Manhattan as well as in East Hampton. He passed away due to complications following a heart procedure on March 30, 2004; his funeral took place at B'nai Jeshurun.