Darrell James Peck

Darrell James Peck, age 86, of Storm Lake, Iowa died on Saturday, May 26, 2018 at his home in Storm Lake. Private graveside services were held. The Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Storm Lake is in charge of the arrangements. Darrell James Peck was born December 11, 1931 in Oakland, Iowa the son of Frank and Edna (Aldrich) Peck. On December 8, 1940, Darrell was baptized at the Church of Christ in Oakland. Growing up, he attended school in Avoca where he graduated from Avoca High School in 1949. On September 24, 1952, Darrell was united in marriage to Betty Ann Eckhardt in Hastings, Nebraska. Together they were blessed with two children: Kimberly Ann and Martin Robert. On April 2, 1952, Darrell enlisted in the United States Army where he received the National Defense Service Medal and the Occupational Medal. He was honorably discharged on March 18, 1954. Following his discharge from the Army, Darrell attended Hastings College where he graduated in 1957. He then furthered his education at the University of Nebraska where he received his PhD in English. Darrell was a Professor of English at Buena Vista University in Storm Lake for 35 years. He also served as the Athletic Director at Buena Vista University. Darrell was the President of the NCAA Division III of Iowa for many years and the recipient of the Wythe Award at Buena Vista University. Darrell also received the Outstanding Educators of America in 1973 and was the Graduate Marshall at Buena Vista Ceremonies. He loved to travel and was fortunate to see most of the world. His favorite place was Hawaii. He'd been there 7 times. He had also owned and ran Gateway School of Message Therapy with his sister Joan after retiring from BV. While he lived in Sioux City he volunteered at Mercy Medical Center for years and really enjoyed it. Family was important to Darrell and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Those left to cherish his memory include his children: Kim Johnson of Albert City, Iowa; Marty (Tammy) Peck of Storm Lake, Iowa; grandchildren: Kassi (Peter) Harder; Rachel (Lee) Goll; Tori (Austin) Stille; Madison (Michael Black) Peck; Mason Peck; great grandchildren: Maci and Brooklyn Harder; Sarah and Rylee Goll; sister, Joan (Donnie) Knott of Olathe, Kansas; sisters-in-law: Donna (Eldon) Grothen; Nadine Peck; nieces; nephews; cousins; and many friends. Darrell was preceded in death by his parents; Frank and Edna Peck; wife, Betty Peck; brothers: Gerald Peck and Donald Peck; and son-in-law, Brad Johnson.

Darrell James Peck

December 11, 1931 - May 26, 2018