Richard Norris "Dick" Peters

1924 - 2023

PETERS, Mr. Richard Norris "Dick", 98, passed away peacefully in Tallahassee, Fla., on April 22, 2023. He was born on November 8, 1924 in Omaha, Neb. He is survived by his loving wife of 73 years, Joyce Mongerson Peters; and daughters, Lynn P. Baker of Richmond, Va., Paula P. Smith (Bill) of Tallahassee Fla., and Nancy Peters of Dillon, Colo.; grandchildren, Jennifer Smith McDermott (Chris) of St. Louis, Mo. and William Smith (Sophie) of Tallahassee Fla.; stepgrandchildren, Elizabeth Baker Hafdelin (Michael) of Richmond, Va.; and great-grandchildren, Ford and Cameron Smith, and Bridget, Michael and Matthew Hafdelin.

On his 18th birthday, Dick enlisted in the Army Air Corps. He served in Italy near the end of the war, flying day and night missions in a C-47, delivering supplies, evacuating wounded and ferrying troops home after VE Day.

With the help of the GI bill, Dick became the first in his family to attend college. On the recommendation of a friend, he chose Iowa State College in Ames, Iowa. He loved his time at college, where he met Joyce, the love of his life. He made lifelong friends and served as president of his fraternity, Phi Kappa Psi. He graduated in 1949 with a degree in Engineering. The week after graduation, he began his 40-year career with Reynolds Metals Company, providing a life of challenge, adventure, friendships and professional achievement.

He retired in 1989 as President of Reynolds Aluminum Supply Company. In retirement, Joyce and Dick spent many wonderful years traveling the world.

When Joyce and Dick moved to Westminster Oaks Retirement Community in Tallahassee, Fla. in 2002, it was their 15th move. Over their long marriage, they lived in seven states, from California to Virginia. As residents of Tallahassee, they enjoyed attending as many Florida State University sporting events as possible, and hosted countless family gatherings.

We will miss our father, friend and mentor.

A memorial service was held for family on April 23. In memory of Dick, please consider making a gift to Trinity United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 1020, Tallahassee, Fla. 32302.