Gerald Wayne Peters

Services: Tuesday May 12th 1pm-4pm (Military Rights at 1:15pm) Solon American Legion 222 East Main Street Solon IA 52333 Gerald Wayne Peters, a cherished husband, devoted father, and esteemed community member, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2026, after a short but courageous battle with cancer. Born on June 18, 1944, in California, Missouri, Gerald was a beacon of kindness, intelligence, and dedication throughout his 81 years of life. Gerald was the beloved son of Richard and LouLa Mae Peters, both of whom predeceased him, along with his dear brother, Richard "Gene" Peters. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Kathleen Peters, whose partnership and love were the cornerstones of his life. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising three daughters: Tricia (Jeremy) Stolba, Katrina (Steve) Helle, and Michele Peters. Gerald's legacy continues through his nine adoring grandchildren—Abigail, Sydney (Andrew), Tamierra (Thaddius), Madison (Trevor), Dain, Cole, Ella (Elijah), Nicholas, and Adrian—and three precious great-grandchildren, Cordelia, Everett, and Emery. He is also survived by his sister, Carolyn Peck, along with numerous brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and friends who became family. Gerald's journey in life was marked by a profound love for learning and a commitment to serving others. He proudly served his country with the 4631st Air Base Squadron E4 in the Air Force, an experience that shaped his unwavering dedication to supporting veterans. This commitment was most evident in his co-founding of the Veterans Liberty Center in September 2015, alongside his dear friend Larry Dingman. Gerald devoted over 40 hours a week for more than 15 years to ensure that veterans had a place of support and resources. His fervent wish was for the center to continue its mission long after his passing. Education was another pillar of Gerald's life. He was a proud alumnus of Northern Illinois University, where he later shared his knowledge and passion for accounting as a professor. His career in accounting saw him excel at Bandag in the early 70s before moving on to National Oats in Cedar Rapids, where he retired as the head of Accounting. Not one to rest, Gerald embraced entrepreneurship in his later years, owning Proway Professional Chemists. Gerald also had a zest for excitement and adventure. As an early member of the Snowdrifters Snowmobile Club from the 70s through the early 90s, he shared the thrill of snowmobile drag racing with his daughter Tricia. Gerald was also known affectionately as "Plutos," by his snowmobile buddies. He was active at the Hay Days races in Minnesota, both as a racer and tech. Above all, Gerald was a man who valued the continuous pursuit of knowledge. He once wisely said that he would choose "the one who never stops learning" when asked whether he would prefer to hire a young graduate or an experienced individual. This mantra was evident in every facet of his life and inspired those around him to seek growth and knowledge. Gerald Wayne Peters leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and an insatiable curiosity about the world. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we celebrate his life, we remember his warmth, his unwavering support, and the countless ways he touched the lives of those around him.