Stephen Frederick Peck

1947 - 2023

STEPHEN FREDERICK PECK

September 9, 1947 November 1, 2023

Stephen Frederick Peck passed away November 1st, 2023 in Los Angeles, California following a brief illness. Steve was born September 9th, 1947 in Cortland, New York to Ruth and Fred Peck. Steve's earliest memories were of playing baseball in the fields near his Riverside home. An athlete, Steve excelled in baseball, basketball, and football in school and graduated from Corona High School in 1965, where he earned nine varsity letters. He attended the University of California-Riverside where he played both football and baseball, holding the record for 17 career interceptions. He graduated with a BA in Economics, History and PE. Steve had a successful career in athletics as an assistant Athletic Director at UC Riverside, a running back coach, and recruiter at Utah State, and then as Head Football Coach at Porterville College in California. Steve mentored his young players with love and strength and was a father-figure to many.

A pivotal moment in Steve's life occurred one summer when he met Georgia Lynn Bookout on the campus of Utah State. Steve knew his life's ambitions would forever be changed by this fortuitous meeting. The two began traveling between two states to spend time together. Steve's persistence paid off when the two married in Bakersfield, California in 1978. A kind and devoted husband, Steve was willing to support Georgia in many professional goals. The relationship the two share was nourished by their common interests; Steve loved the arts and Georgia loved Football. It was a match made in heaven and sustained their marriage of 45 years. Steve worked to make Georgia's life easier in every way.

The family was complete following the birth of two daughters, Myka in 1981, and Tiler in 1989. Steve was overjoyed with the blessing of being a father to his daughters. The quintessential girl dad, Steve nurtured close relationships with his daughters; listening to them, loving them, and spending all his time with his family. He maintained this loving support as he transitioned to a new profession in automotive management in Bakersfield. Steve was good with people and was a successful Manager.

Oldest daughter Myka cherishes the summer training sessions her Dad had with her during the years she played collegiate soccer. On the day of her wedding, Steve was the only one present that knew how to iron her wedding gown. Steve preferred family life to pursuing any other interest. On a special occasion, as Tiler and Steve sat in the audience watching The Nutcracker, Tiler said, Daddy, I am going to dance on that stage someday. Tiler remembers that her Dad had listening ears and encouraged her in this goal. His support was critical for Tiler as she became the Principal Dancer for the New York City Ballet. Despite his pride in the successes of his children, Steve was a quiet and reserved man.

In later years Steve kept busy sharing in the housework and was proud of his garden, he especially loved decorating the home during the holidays. Steve is survived by his wife Georgia, Daughters Myka and Tiler, his Mother-in-law Princess, and Myka's husband Cullen Chambers. We are comforted in the knowledge that our beloved husband and father was received into his heavenly home to await a happy reunion with each of us.

Services will take place December 4th, 2023 at Greenlawn Mortuary on Panama at 2 pm, viewing at 12 noon.

www.bakersfield.com/obits