Amid a four-decade career in civil engineering, Glen Van Peski developed technology for ultralight backpacking and founded a company with lightweight outdoor gear. Along the way, he learned a thing or two about life.

The Bend resident compiled his observations and 60 years of life experience into “take less. do more,” a book that launched earlier this month.

“I’m an unremarkable guy that’s ended up with a pretty remarkable life, so I think there’s probably some lessons in there that people can appreciate,” Van Peski said.

Of the 15 lessons contained in the book, one is dedicated to gear and backpacking techniques. The rest of its contents focus on living a fulfilled life with three main pillars centered on generosity, gratitude and curiosity.

Van Peski doesn’t consider his counsel revelatory. Rather, he hopes that his exact combination of words might affect a reader at precisely the right time.

“Timing is important for people. Sometimes you have to be ready for a message at a certain time in your life. My hope is that the words I’ve used in the book and the stories I tell and the timing of the book will coincide for (readers) and give them some tools for injecting a little more joy and meaning and purpose into their lives,” he said.

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Lesson 5: Take Less, Give More

Van Peski committed to donating 100% of author profits from book sales to the Pacific Crest Trail Association.

“There are so many connections in my life to the trail and the association tasked with preserving, protecting and promoting the trail that I thought, ‘You know, that’s the obvious choice,’’ he said.

He has served on the board of the Pacific Crest Trail Association, hiked a couple of thousand miles of the trail and lived most of his life in two of the three states the trail traverses.

He said he’s also blessed to be in a position where more money won’t make a difference in his lifestyle. The author, engineer and entrepreneur has never taken a salary from his ultralight gear company, Gossamer Gear. He and his wife, Francie, give away a significant percentage of their income to nonprofit organizations and everyday situations where they feel called to help.

Author events in Bend

Van Peski hosted an author event at Sparrow Bakery on Tuesday with all proceeds from book sales benefitting MountainStar Family Relief Nursery in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month. Coming up, he’s hosting an author event at Roundabout Books on Thursday and two presentations in partnership with REI in the Old Mill District on May 6 and 7.

For Van Peski, finding opportunities to be of service is important, regardless of perceived prestige. These days, the recent retiree finds fulfillment and purpose as a dishwasher at Sparrow Bakery. It’s an avenue that allows him to connect with and serve the community.

“It might not have much status, but it sure is important,” he said.

If You Go

What: In-store event at Roundabout Books

When: 6:30 p.m. Thursday

Where: Roundabout Books, 900 NW Mt. Washington Drive, No. 110, Bend

Cost: $5 or the purchase of Van Peski’s book

Contact: roundaboutbookshop.com

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What: Glen Van Peski presents at REI

When: 5 p.m., May 6 and 7

Where: REI, 380 Powerhouse Drive, Bend

Cost: Free

Contact: rei.com/events