Lester Vernon Peck

Lester Vernon Peck was born August 8, 1926, in Meriden, Iowa to Claude and Laura (Pfiefer) Peck, the seventh of nine children. He graduated from Meriden High School as class valedictorian in 1943 and entered the Navy at age 17. He worked as a signalman aboard carriers stationed in the Pacific Ocean.

Honorably discharged in 1947 from the Navy, Lester returned to Cherokee County, Iowa to work following service. There he met the love of his life, Mary Unkur, while helping on the farm still owned by the family today. After their wedding on October 4, 1948, in Cherokee, IA, Lester and Mary had seven children and also raised grandchildren Melissa (Myssy) Langan and Lester Connors, following their mother’s illness.

Lester and Mary moved to Idaho in 1975 for work with the United Food and Commercial Workers Union (UFCW). He served the UFCW as an International Vice President until his retirement. Lester was active in the Knights of Columbus, serving as Grand Knight and having other leadership roles. A supporter and committed member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Nampa, ID, he helped organize the first Boy Scout troop of the parish. Lester was also active in politics, notably hosting the Canyon County Democratic Party fundraising picnic with Mary at their home for 43 years. He spent countless hours volunteering with AARP. He loved fishing, hunting and especially treasured family time.

Lester was preceded in death by his parents, infant son Dennis Lester Peck, daughter Mary Theresa Foote, two brothers and four sisters. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 75 years, son Donald (Dawn) Peck of Nampa, and daughters Dianne Perkins of Nampa, Jeanette (late husband Chuck) Benson of Aurelia, IA, Joanne (Clyde) Sorensen of Alton, IA and Mary Beth (Greg) Salo of Glenoma, WA, sisters Dorothy Moorman of Los Angeles, CA and Joyce (Andy) Anderson of Alta, IA, 17 grandchildren, 34 great grandchildren and eight great, great grandchildren.

Lester was a man of spiritual conviction and unwavering strength. His family looks forward to celebrating his life and then honoring his legacy.

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