Eugene’s life began on July 9, 1913, in Dowagiac, the son of John and Violet (Kelso) Peck  He was a graduate of Dowagiac Central High School, County Normal School and received his bachelor’s degree in education at Western State Teacher’s College (now Western Michigan University).

He earned a master’s degree from University of Michigan and an education specialist degree (Ed.S) from Michigan State University.

Eugene was united in marriage to the former Marian TeRoller Peck, who preceded him in death.

Eugene worked at a teacher at Indian Lake School, a one-room schoolhouse near Dowagiac, then went on to teach and be a principal in the Battle Creek School District.

He worked as a branch manager of the Home Furnace Co. in both Piqua, Ohio, and Bay City, Mich.

Eugene returned to teaching in Saginaw at the Longstreet School and as principal of the Hoyt and Salina schools. He served as the elementary intern consultant in Saginaw, too.

He lived a lifetime of creativity, including making silver and turquoise jewelry, stained glass and ceramics. Eugene enjoyed wood working, leather tooling and painting.  He was an avid vegetable, fruit and flower gardener, a bee keeper and enjoyed salmon and trout fishing.

He is survived by: his daughter, Margene Stroup of Lakewood, Colo.; two grandsons, Brady (Gwen) Stroup of Golden, Colo., and Ryan Stroup of Lakewood, Colo.; four great-grandchildren, Simon, Jackson, Jenna and Jaydon Stroup; and a brother, Dick (Mary) Peck of Dowagiac.

Eugene, 97, of Dowagiac, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 19, 2010, at Meadow View Estates in Cassopolis.

In addition to his wife, Eugene is preceded in death by sister Janet Peck (Ed) Lieber. There will be no services for Eugene at this time.

Yazel and Clark Chapel is serving his family. Memorial contributions in his name may be directed to Hope’s Door Ministry, 132 S. Front St., Dowagiac, MI 49047. Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of Eugene at www.yazel-clark.com.