Donald Ray Peck

Don treated everyone he met with respect and compassion. The many people who knew him as a friend, had the most loyal and caring friend anyone could ask for. He had a servant’s heart and would always be willing to help anyone who asked.

Don grew up in the Panhandle of Oklahoma and met the love of his life, Carla Vaughn, at Oklahoma State University. Don’s devotion to his country took him overseas to Vietnam. As a First Lieutenant, his brave service earned him a bronze star. Don was asked to stay enlisted and offered a promotion, but he had a deeper desire to return to Oklahoma to marry Carla.

After marrying in 1970, Don and Carla were blessed with three daughters, Christie, Kim & Jen. In each, he instilled humility, charity and the importance of family. He led by example and taught each of his daughters that actions speak louder than words and kindness is never wasted.

The majority of Don’s professional career was spent at John Deere as a design engineer. He retired from Deere in 2008 with 30 years of service in Moline, IL and Des Moines, IA. Through his time at Deere, he was awarded 17 patents, some by himself and some as part of a design team. The lasting friendships that he made with many of his coworkers was evident as he received numerous cards, calls and even visits when his health deteriorated in the last month.

Before his bone cancer was detected, Don enjoyed his retirement by travelling the USA with Carla, golfing when the Iowa weather allowed, and cheering on his grandchildren in all their sports and activities. Don loved working with his hands and would help his children with any odd jobs they had in and around the house. Covid and the effects of his bone cancer changed everything, but his love of family did not deter him from Sunday visits and competitive games, it only made the family get more creative in how to get together while keeping him safe and healthy.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Orlene Peck. He is survived by his wife of nearly 53 years, Carla; his three children: Christie (Dave) Hulet, Kim (Shaun) Cahalan, and Jen (Mike) Harrison; three grandchildren, Jon, Addi and Emma; his brother, Terry (Carolyn) Peck; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Don would want friends and family to enjoy the gift that is life and to make memories with the ones you love. He has been an inspiration to all around him and will be remembered for his love, devotion and kindness.

The family will greet friends from 5-7 pm on Tuesday, June 13 at McLaren’s Resthaven Chapel in West Des Moines. A memorial service will be held at Ashworth Church at 10 AM on Wednesday, June 14.

Memorial contributions may be made to EveryStep – Kavanaugh House.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mclarensresthavenchapel.com for the Peck family.