Ret. Col. Peter Gervas Cei Jr.

Retired Colonel Peter G. Cei, Jr., U.S. Army, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and decorated veteran, who departed peacefully on Friday, September 26, 2025, at the age of 90, passed away at Sunrise of Raymore Assisted Living, though he was a long-time resident of Bonner Springs, Kansas.
Born on June 30, 1935, in Des Moines, Iowa, Peter's early years were spent raising Hereford cattle on his family's ranch in Detonti, Arkansas. He pursued higher education at the University of Arkansas, graduating in 1956 with a degree in Business Administration.
Following in his father's footsteps, Peter had a distinguished career in the United States Army. Peter was commissioned as an armor officer in 1956 and demonstrated unwavering courage and commitment during two demanding tours of duty in Vietnam, earning 2 Bronze Stars with an Oak Leaf Cluster. His leadership and expertise in these critical roles left an indelible mark. Colonel Cei continued his dedicated service to the Army in various leadership roles throughout Europe and America until his retirement in February 1980, completing a career marked by honor and steadfast devotion.
Shortly before concluding his military career, Peter found and married the love of his life, Irene Hustead, on May 5, 1979. Their devoted partnership blossomed over 46 joyful years, forming the cornerstone of his personal life.
In his well-deserved retirement, Peter cultivated a rich array of passions. He found solace and creative expression in woodworking, meticulously crafting pieces with his hands. His intellectual curiosity was boundless, leading him to avidly read history and science fiction, genres that reflected his lifelong interest in the world and its possibilities. He also expressed his artistic side through intricate jewelry making, creating beautiful pieces cherished by his loved ones.
Peter's life was also profoundly defined by his deep love and commitment to his family. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Mike Cei, in 2005, he is survived by his cherished wife of 46 years, Irene Cei. His enduring legacy continues through his nine children: Diana Cei of Quinlan, Texas; Jeff Berke and his wife, Lisa of Ennis, Montana; Cindy Phillips and her husband, Bob of Overland Park, Kansas; Gary Berke and his wife, Trisha of Lee's Summit, Missouri; Beth McIntyre and her husband, Robert of Kansas City North, Missouri; Kathy Berke of Kansas City, Kansas; Jeni Munson and her husband, Dan of Kansas City North, Missouri; Terry Nixon and her husband, Mike of Kansas City, Missouri; and Joe Tyrrell of Kirkwood, Missouri. He was also a proud grandfather and great-grandfather to 52 individuals who will profoundly miss him.
Friends and family are invited to attend a Visitation from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Saturday, October 11, 2025 and Memorial services that will immediately follow at 11:00 AM. Both will be held at the Alden-Harrington Funeral Home, located in Bonner Springs, Kansas. Following the memorial service, Colonel Cei will be laid to rest with military honors at the Bonner Springs Cemetery.
Colonel Peter G.C. Junior lived a life of purpose, honor, and love, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be cherished by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.