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Captain Patrick Kevin Peppe
Captain Patrick Kevin Peppe
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Captain Patrick Peppe Obituary
Arizona, on Sunday, May 25, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and the quiet peace he so
deeply deserved.
Born in Los Angeles, California to Victor S. Peppe and Marlene J. Peppe and raised as the
eldest of twelve children, Kevin was a natural leader from the very beginning. With humility
and grace, he helped guide the Peppe family with a steady hand and a kind heart-setting a
powerful example of strength, compassion, and responsibility for his younger siblings that
endured throughout his life.
Kevin was a passionate advocate for lifelong learning, believing that education should never
cease once a career begins. He led by example, continuously expanding his knowledge
throughout his life-both in service and beyond. After earning his undergraduate degree from
the University of Minnesota and receiving his commission from Officer Candidate School in
1978, Kevin pursued advanced education with tireless dedication. He earned a master's degree
in Operations Research from the Naval Postgraduate School, where his research received the
Chief of Naval Operations Award for Excellence and the Military Operations Society
Graduate Research Award. He later completed professional military education at the Naval
War College in 1994 and the National War College in 2000, where he was awarded a Master
of Science in National Security Strategy. Ever the student, he went on to earn a Juris Doctor
from George Mason University School of Law in 2002 and completed executive studies in
Management and Entrepreneurial Leadership at Babson College. For Kevin, learning was not
just a personal pursuit but a core value-one he championed in both his family and his
professional life.
Over the course of his distinguished career in the United States Navy, Kevin served aboard
four submarines, including the USS Andrew Jackson (SSBN-619), USS Groton (SSN-694)
twice, USS La Jolla (SSN-701) and the USS Atlanta (SSN-712), where he served as the
Commanding Officer. Kevin was later appointed the Commodore of Submarine Squadron 8.
In all his roles he inspired excellence, integrity, and courage. He retired at the rank of Captain
after decades of honorable service to his country.
After retiring from the Navy, Kevin joined Raytheon Missile Systems in Tucson, Arizona,
where he began a second distinguished career in defense. He later rose to become Vice
President of Seapower Capability Systems at Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems in
Portsmouth, Rhode Island. In his role as an executive within the Naval Warfare Systems
division, Kevin continued to serve national defense with the same dedication and vision that
had defined his military service-championing innovation and strategic advancement. He also
contributed thoughtful, influential articles to U.S. Naval Institute Proceedings and The Submarine
Review, where his deep strategic insight left a lasting imprint on the naval intellectual
community.
Yet for all of Kevin's accomplishments, the roles he cherished most were those of husband,
father, and grandfather.
He was a devoted and loving husband to Lori, his partner and best friend for his lifetime. June
13th, 2025 would have been their 50th wedding anniversary. Together, they built a home rooted
in warmth, laughter, and boundless love. Kevin was an extraordinary father to his six
children-Jessica, Maria, Kristin, Andrea, Barbara, and Bud-each of whom carry forward his
legacy of strength, integrity, and quiet generosity. As "Papa," he was the heart of the family to
his 14 adoring grandchildren, each of whom knew his boundless love, his quiet joy in teaching
them to fish, and the magic of his calm, sea-loving presence.
A celebration of Kevin's life will be held on Sunday, June 15, 2025, at 4:00 PM at the home of
his daughter Maria in Virginia Beach: 110 44th Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.
All who knew and loved him are welcome to attend and share in honoring his remarkable life.
Please RSVP here: https://www.icloud.com/invites/0d19RI65tbk4Ulpyo-nOFfJAQ
Captain Kevin Peppe leaves behind a legacy of service, wisdom, and love. His life touched
many-from the submariners he led, to the colleagues he inspired, to the family he held so
dearly. He will be remembered not only for his accomplishments but for the depth of his
character and the kindness he extended to all.
Fair winds and following seas, Captain. Your watch is complete.
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Rick Basham
June 18, 2025
I had the honor of working for Kevin while he was the Phalanx Program Director. During that time, he provided me with many life lessons, both personal and professional, that still guide me today. Kevin was a stellar example of what it meant to live life to the fullest, but never forgot what was most important in this world....family. Thank you Kevin for the time I was afforded with you. Your legacy will never be forgotten. Until we meet again my friend.
Amanda Roberton
June 15, 2025
Love you!
Amanda Roberton
June 15, 2025
Matthew 25:23 | The master said, "Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let's celebrate together!"
I am here to celebrate Kevin! Kevin was a generous and kind man that throughout my life has always wanted to share and teach life with whomever was with him. Throughout my life, I watched him provide and share his love and support to those he loved. I was blessed to have had many memories with him and his family with visits including Minnesota, Virginia and Arizona. The kindness he showed me as a Nybo to a Roberton has warmed my heart and made me feel like I was always part of the family. During my younger years I remember the visits in Virginia where he taught me about submarines as well as welcoming me into their home later in life to experience the east coast. We had many visits in Minnesota together as well as welcoming my family to their home in Arizona these last few years. Kevin will never be forgotten. I celebrate Kevin and am so blessed to call him my uncle. He will be missed but forever loved.
Craig and Melanie Nybo
June 15, 2025
Kevin and Lori have welcomed us to their home in Tucson staying on their property with our camper during the winter. They showed us around the area going on hikes at the Saguaro National Park, driving up to Mount Lemon for the famous cookie and Chiricahua National Monument. These were just a few places we visited. Craig and I fell in love with the area and decided to move here permanently. They toured about a 100 homes with us until we found the right one. They even flew from Rhode Island to help us move in. We could not of made this move without them.
When we would go over to visit Kevin and ask him how it´s going he would always reply, Super Fantastic. We just loved that.
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Aunt Diane
June 15, 2025
LETTER TO KEVIN
Loved you for the way you respected and loved Lori! Both of you reached your individual potentials because of that love you had for each other. You made each other better!
As the years went by I saw you evolve from the quiet serious guy, often wandering off by yourself, searching for more knowledge from many sources to a socially cheerful, happy guy spreading your knowledge with those who asked for your help.
Lori, your Children, Grandchildren, Mother, Brothers and Sisters, and other family were VERY important to you. You were the anchor for all! Nurturing and caring for all with unconditional love.
You are gone from us now but NEVER EVER forgotten in fact, you have one errand to do yet which I plan on collecting. You told me recently with a big hug that when I wanted to come see you I was to call on YOU and you would come get me! Please listen for my call!
Love, Aunt Diane
Sara, Mike, Angelina, & Max Colavita
June 14, 2025
Some people carry a quiet kind of presence - one that makes you feel like something meaningful is happening, even in the smallest moment. That was Kevin.
I remember the steady way he spoke - thoughtful, calm, and intelligent - the kind of voice that made people stop and listen. Kevin had a gift for making people feel valued, for connecting stories and ideas in a way that sparked both curiosity and comfort.
The love and strength of his family, the generosity of his home, and the deep respect people held for him - all of these are reflections of a life well-lived. Kevin made an impression not just with what he said, but with how he made others feel. That´s a powerful kind of legacy.
He will be remembered with admiration, with affection, and with lasting love.
Mike & Valerie Nybo
June 14, 2025
Lori and the whole Peppe Clan,
Our hearts are broken. Kevin was one of a kind and we are all fortunate to have had him in our lives.
Thinking of you with love
Ted O'Harrah (CAPT USN (ret))
June 14, 2025
I cannot understate Kevin´s influence on me as a submarine officer and leader. His thirst for learning, his care for sailors, his expectations of excellence and his love for family were tenets I used as I progressed in my career. He remained a valued resource throughout my career and I always valued his sage advice.
Kevin´s legacy lives on in all of us who got to serve with him underway at sea.
Brian & Sandy Nybo
June 13, 2025
Lori - Kids - Grandkids and the Peppe family:
Kevin was an amazing person - he touched so many people´s lives - his deep love, caring, kindness and patience will be sorely missed by all of us.
Brian remembers Kevin making a glider and going on top of Don and Barb´s house to fly it off the roof and then later making a bigger glider to take up to Boone Hill and fly off the top.
We both remember Out East Kevin and Lori took us to their favorite fishing spot but before that Kevin had to stop and get bait which ended up being eels - yuck - anyway we get out ready to fish and he starts smacking them against the side of the boat and he said "don´t worry they´ll come back alive". It was kind of bloody and icky, but we did catch fish.
That same visit Brian vividly remembers Neighbor Bob driving a brand new McLaren down the street and we went into Kevin and Lori`s garage and Brian asked Kevin is that your Mercedes and Kevin replied "yes it is" and then he said "Do you want to take it for a ride" and he threw him the keys
Kevin and Lori also took us on a driving tour of all the mansions in the area and we always thought it was such a cute saying he had "And another fun fact" we use that phrase often and will continue to use it with fondness and remembrance of him
Love you all
Miss you, Kevin
Jeff Zerbe
June 12, 2025
Lori and family,
Not only did Kevin and I proudly serve together, he was instrumental in my decision to pursue a second career in Aerospace and Defense. I will always remember our time in Tucson and Raytheon Missile Systems. A true shipmate, inspirational leader, mentor and friend. Kevin touched so many of us throughout his distinguished careers and will always be remembered..
Ann/Larry Hatcher
June 12, 2025
To the Peppe family: please know that we are thinking of you. Kevin was truly a kind, caring, amazing man. We enjoyed our conversations with him.
Christine peppe olson
June 10, 2025
He was our big brother, our leader, the first and he will be missed TREMENDOUSLY , NEVER forgotten and LOVED ALWAYS!!!!
Malcolm Dixon
June 9, 2025
Thank you Captain, for your service not just to your country, but to humanity as well.
Brian and Robynne Alber
June 8, 2025
Dear Lori and Family,
We are profoundly sorry for your loss. Losing a loved one is an incredible sorrow, and our hearts go out to you during this difficult time. May you all find comfort in the cherished memories you shared and strength in the love and support of those around you. Please know that Kevin and you all are in our thoughts and prayers. We will always hold dear the times we were fortunate enough to spend together. God Bless.
Mike Hewitt
June 8, 2025
I am grieved at the loss of Kevin. I knew him as a submariner from the time that I was Deputy Commander at the Submarine Development Squadron in Groton and he was a LT on the USS Groton. We are now working on establishing a monument using the sail and rudder of the Groton and I would like to dedicate a paver in Kevin's memory. He worked with me when I was Editor of the Submarine Review and I always appreciated his thoughtful advice and inputs. Please contact me to discuss an inscription for his paver at the monument.
Chuck and Toni Ciany
June 8, 2025
Dear Lori and Family,
We are truly, deeply saddened by your loss. Kevin will remain in our hearts as a man of incredible knowledge, optimism, compassion, joy, generosity and warmth. I hold close to my heart memories of our wonderful evenings together. You and Kevin shared a love that was palpable and thus inspiring. Blessings to you all. With love...
Ed Thomas
June 6, 2025
I had the pleasure of working with Kevin at Raytheon on several programs/projects. He always had an open door policy and was more than willing to offer advice and counsel when sought.
Fair Winds & Following Seas my friend...
Steve Jones
June 5, 2025
I served alongside Kevin as another Commanding Officer. We were classmates in Prospective Commanding Officer school. I can honestly say that it was Kevin who dragged me through that course We spent our command days constantly trying to outdo each other. Each time either if us got some new gadget for our ship, the other had to get a better one. He was my best friend during those years and one of the smartest men that I ever knew.
The world is a much lesser place without him
Rest your oars my friend,
Steve Jones
Thomas Travis
June 5, 2025
Kevin is a fine man, a strong leader, and a valued colleague. I will miss you, friend.
Van Gurley
June 5, 2025
Lori & kids,
Kim and I send our deepest condolences. Kevin was the first person I met who was truly larger than life. My JO tour on La Jolla with him as ENG was so formative - I learned great lessons from him on submarining, the Navy, leadership, and life. To this day, I still tell stories about Kevin and the lessons I learned from him as I try to follow his example as a mentor for those who work for me. In later years, I was amazed at the times Kevin and I would randomly run into each other in the most unexpected circumstances. He - and you and the kids - had a profound impact on both Kim and me. As youngsters just getting married, we loved the example that the big, boisterous, and loving family the Peppe clan always provided.
With heavy hearts and deepest sorrow, Van and Kim
Van Badzik
June 4, 2025
Lori and (very) extended Peppe family - I am sorry for your loss of an amazing family man, great submariner, an inspirational leader, and just an awesome guy. I will always remember Kevin fondly from my time serving on the La Jolla. I couldn´t ask for a more supportive boss and excellent mentor. He let me learn through experience, mentorship, and continued support.
May you find solace and comforting memories in the days and weeks ahead.
With condolences,
John Ferrer
June 4, 2025
This hurts...
"may his memory be a blessing" seems so appropriate.
After serving on LA JOLLA (3 consecutive battle E´s) for 2 WESTPACs as a JO, I had the privilege of overseeing the awesome Engineering Department turnover to Kevin. I was the short-timer DCA and with the incumbent ENG on leave for most of the turnover period, I was his target for a lot of those "how do you do this..." questions. It was my first brush with the greatness that was Kevin Peppe.
We later connected in New London when I was ENG and then XO on other boats. I got to attend a post-deployment brief, where he smacked down - politely - a few who questioned various tactical decisions; which later were proven prescient, borne out by lots of hard learned lessons learned by others. FWIW, IMHO he belonged in the category "Break glass in time of war"
Off the boat, I enjoyed his talks about the hard lessons learned concerning the wiring deficiencies of his 67? Corvette with as much detail as any non-qual trying to get a signature for electrical distribution. I can still see him standing at a Connecticut 7-11 with a warming gallon of milk and a non-starting `vette.... I loved reading his musings about tax policy in the New London fish wrapper... Why do the rich hate the flat tax?
I loved listening to him talk about his children, Lori...
A Warrior, Husband, Father gone too soon, where do we get such men?
Todd Sullivan
June 3, 2025
As XO, he qualified me as COW as an E5 in 1991...great leader and was well loved and respected by the crew!
Todd Sullivan
June 3, 2025
XOMO
Julian A. Vazquez
June 2, 2025
I served onboard USS Atlanta while he was Captain. He was the best Captain that I served with during my Navy career.
Monica Silva Burnley
June 2, 2025
Kevin was a kind and thoughtful leader and I am blessed to have had the opportunity to work with him during his tenure at SCC in Portsmouth. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family as they grieve this great loss.
Pat O'Connor
June 2, 2025
Lori and the Peppe Clan, so sorry for you loss. It was a pleasure to serve with Kevin when he was our Engineer on the USS La Jolla. He was a positive influence on all of us. Extremely positive, very sharp, great sense of humor, great submariner, and great person. I remember one discussion with him on life and he basically said the main thing he was worried about is his family. "Is my wife OK? Are my kids OK? If they are good. I good." My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Ed Giambastiani Admiral, US Navy (ret)
June 1, 2025
Peppe family-please accept Cindy´s and my prayers and deepest condolences on the passing of Kevin. My memories are of a superb submarine officer, commanding officer and squadron commander. Always positive, leading by example. Our thanks to you the family for your lifetime of support and service to our Navy, nation and submarine force and most importantly to Kevin. We all are the better for it. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jason McConnell
June 1, 2025
Kevin was very instrumental in my Navy career, he was a great mentor but very much a family man, he had the best hill in his backyard for sledding in the winter and my boys went every winter. Rest easy brother, fair winds and following seas, we have the watch.
Lori I wish you and your family all the peace and understanding and you will be in our thoughts and prayers!
Thomas MacPherson (MM1/SS Ret)
May 31, 2025
I was privileged to have served under him on the USS Atlanta. Rest your oars Captain, we were glad to have you.
John Hayward
May 31, 2025
I have been lucky to have worked for many wonderful people. Mr. Peppe was the best of the bunch, enough can't be said about his \many attributes, he was a blessed person and he was well aware of it, his kindness, patience and confidence spoke volumes, it was truly a blessing to have been exposed to his influence. Fair winds
Anthony (Tony) Batista
May 31, 2025
Served under Captain Peppe very early in my career onboard the USS Groton (SSN 694) in the 80´s.
He will be greatly missed within the Submarine Community and to all of us who had the pleasure to stand the watch with him.
Fair winds and following seas Sir.
V/r
Tony Batista
Michael D Gross
May 31, 2025
Fair winds and following seas to one of the best Naval Officers I ever worked with. He was the Engineer on the USS Groton when I worked with him. Fond memories. Peace be with you. "Doc" Michael D Gross, HMCS (ss), USN, Retired.
James S Scally
May 31, 2025
I had the privilege and pleasure to serve with Kevin on 2 boats. He was a Lt. and I was his A-division Chief. Best division officer I ever worked for. He was also a great friend. My kids played with his in the mid 1980´s. we played many rounds of golf together. He was a great man and I am pleased to have had him as a Friend! God just got a fantastic Angel
Rest in Peace my friend
DAVE
May 31, 2025
Best XO ever! Rest your oars shipmate! I served with him on the Groton!
Jessica Elms
May 31, 2025
Al Konetzni
May 31, 2025
Dear Peppe Family,
Our prayers and thoughts go to you at this most difficult time!
I pray that your wonderful memories of Kevin will provide strength today and warm stories downstream!
He was a great Naval Officer and superb Submariner! He mentored thousands of sailors during his career!
I will never forget Captain Kevin Peppe!
With my condolences and warmest regards,
Al Konetzni
VADM, (USN) ret
Jim roggero
May 31, 2025
My family and our neighbors in portsmouth are deeply sadden with the loss of our friend Kevin. He was my neighbor,friend,someone you just felt like you knew your whole life when we first met. Thanks for all the times we spent together,I wish we had more time for golf,fishing and pizza. My kids thought the world of you and loved your stories.
You were an amazing man,husband,grandfather having all the grandkids here always put a smile on your face. Jane and I will miss "hi ya doing jimmy, hi Jane" when you walk by our house. I'm just gonna say to my self,
He's gone fishing........
Love Jimmy,Jane,Ashley, James
Tommy Smith
May 30, 2025
I knew Captain Peppe when he was the Engineer for the USS LaJolla. He was a great leader who respected and trusted his men. And for that we loved him. Fair winds and following seas, Eng. My deepest condolences to the family.
James Wheelis
May 30, 2025
I served with Captain Peppe on the USS La Jolla; he was a great officer and human being. My condolences for your loss, he will be missed.
ET1 (SS) James Wheelis
Tom Grove
May 30, 2025
Rest easy Captain. You made every one of us better that served with you.
CAPT Richard Snead, USN(Ret)
May 30, 2025
Rest in Peace, Kevin. Far too soon.
Kristine SUMNER
May 30, 2025
I speak for me and Everyone here in the Rhode Island neighborhood. We are heartbroken. Kevin was a shining light and will be missed! He always had a great story and had the biggest Smile when he mentioned his Family! Lots of Love to You All
Dan Bunkers, HMCS(SS), Retired
May 30, 2025
Rest your oars Captain. It was truly an honor to serve under your command as the final "Doc" Medical Department Representative aboard the USS Atlanta (SSN 712). Your welcoming and professional demeanor was cause for the many awards and achievements the ATLANTA earned, and your eventual promotion to Commodore, Submarine Squadron EIGHT.
May God surround you in perpetual light!
Pam Reynolds
May 30, 2025
Kevin Peppe will always be remembered as kind and thoughtful. Cherished memories to be held forever
Jeff Fischbeck
May 30, 2025
Lori and family - We are profoundly saddened to learn of Kevin´s passing. While he will be missed, please know that Peggy, the girls and I have so many lasting good memories of him, including his dedication to work, his exceptional intellect, his infectious sense of humor, and his devotion to family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. - Jeff Fischbeck
Wallygator
May 30, 2025
Fair winds and following seas captain. You will be greatly missed. It was a honor serving under you
Eugene C. Ipox Jr.
May 29, 2025
You will be missed but not forgotten. As "Skipper" of the "Hotlanta" you always pushed us beyond the limits we set before ourselves, to always ask why and not to take what is being told to you but always do the research before making a decision.
You were my Skipper, the one I would follow into battle without any reservation.
Eugene C. Ipox Jr.
TM1/SS USN Retired
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