Gerald Peck

Gerald Lee Peck, son of William Paul and Esther Ruth (Sandberg) Peck, was born on August 23^rd, 1960 in Omaha, Nebraska.  He spent his childhood in Omaha, moved to a farm by Lyman as a teen, and later settled in Atlantic, Iowa where he loved meeting new people and made many lifelong friends.

Gerald was a hard worker.  Early on, he worked at Pizza Hut, spent some time as a wood worker, and had been an employee of the Cass County Landfill for the last 28 years. In addition to his job sorting recyclables, Gerald helped with many other projects at the landfill from collecting specific items for Brandi, to making sure customers were greeted by overflowing flower pots by the office door.  Gerald loved his job at the landfill and his co-workers, Brandi, Bob, Jamie and Jebidiah. They were his family and he enjoyed the time he spent with them both at work, and after hours. Many times they helped Gerald cut fire wood or start seedlings in his basement, and included him in their family gatherings and outings. Gerald especially looked forward to the annual landfill Christmas dinner. 

Gerald’s best friend was Randy Henderson. They spent many an hour sitting on the front steps of Gerald’s house, planning their next adventure. Whether it was going to the movies, a camping trip, or just their regular Saturday shopping. They loved going to Atlantic Fest, the Fireman’s Parade, the County Rodeo, and many other community activities, and they always reminded each other to wear their floppy hats. 

Gerald was an avid fisherman and went fishing with friends whenever he could. Gerald and Randy have probably fished and camped at every lake in the county, including Anita, Littlefield, Cold Springs Park, and many others. 

Gerald’s love of plants and flowers was evident by his “jungle” in the kitchen and multiple plants in every room of the house. He took pride in his flower gardens and could tell you where each different kind of flower was planted, and describe their blooms in detail.  Gerald often shared plants and seeds with friends, family and acquaintances.

Gerald also loved watching birds and feeding them from the many feeders in his front yard. His favorites were red wing blackbirds, gold finches, and humming birds.

Gerald never knew a stranger and was truly kind to everyone he met. He will always be remembered for his contagious laugh and joyful, positive attitude.  It didn’t matter if you were a neighbor, the mailman, or a longtime friend.  Whenever he greeted you, it was, “Hello-o-o John!  How are you this fine day?”  He loved to talk, and could keep you on your toes with his many questions or intrigue you with his knowledge of historical facts or childhood memories. Gerald loved his family and spending time with them, or keeping touch on the phone whenever he could. 

Gerald will be greatly missed by his family and many, many friends and we look forward to our reunion with him in heaven.  In the meantime, as Gerald would say, “We’ll see ya, okay? Bye Bye”.

Gerald died at his home on Tuesday, November 22^nd, 2022, at the age of 62. He is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his sister, Bonnie Glass, of Lincoln, NE, and brothers, Bill Peck, of Claremore, OK, James Peck, of Toele, UT and John (Deborah) Peck, of Harlan IA; nieces and nephews; other family members and longtime friend, Randy Henderson. 

Open visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 29^th at Roland Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 30^th at Roland Funeral Home in Atlantic.  Visitation with the family present will be held prior to the service on Wednesday at the funeral home starting at 10:00 a.m.

Burial will take place at a later date at the I.O.O.F Cemetery in Craig, Missouri.

Memorials may be directed to the family for designation at a later date. 

Roland Funeral Service is caring for Gerald's family and his arrangements.  Condolences may be left at www.rolandfuneralservice.com.