Richard W. Peiper of Leavenworth, Kansas, passed peacefully in his home surrounded by his family on Friday, May 3, 2024. For 89 years, he lived a life filled with purpose: he was an athlete, a soldier, a hero, a scholar, a craftsman — but above all — a loving husband and a devoted father.
Richard was born on February 21, 1935, in Lisbon, Iowa, to Derl and Dorothy (Petersen) Peiper. He was the youngest of two sons. Richard enjoyed playing sports, including track and field, football and basketball. He graduated from Estherville High School in Estherville, Iowa, in 1953 and attended South Dakota State College, where he lettered in track and field. He graduated in 1957 with a degree in agriculture.
Richard was commissioned as an armor officer through the Reserve Officers' Training Corps. His long and honorable career in the military began as an Airborne Ranger in the 101st Airborne Division and the 173rd Brigade. He served overseas in Vietnam, Korea and Germany. You'd not often see Richard without his 101st Airborne Ranger cap; he was proud to be a Screaming Eagle. He eventually rose in the ranks to lieutenant colonel. In 1965, he transferred to military intelligence. He later graduated from the Command and General Staff College. He served as chief, CE section, special operations detachment of the U.S. Army Intelligence Agency, an ACSI inspector general, an executive officer and deputy chief of staff intelligence for United States Army Europe before he retired in 1981. During his service, he received several honors, including the Army Commendation Medal (second oak leaf cluster), Meritorious Service Medal, Vietnamese Medal of Honor, Bronze Star Medal (first oak leaf
cluster) and the Legion of Merit.
After retiring from the military, he earned a Master of Science in Agriculture from Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky. In 1987, Richard went back to work — this time for the Battle Command Training Center as a contractor. He finally embraced retirement in 2010. Richard was a dear friend to many; he was well-loved and respected by all who knew him. He was active in programs at his church, First United Methodist of Leavenworth, Kansas; the Military Officers Association of America; Old Bastards Club of Leavenworth, Kansas; and the Silverback Book Club. An
avid reader with a thirst for knowledge, he was particularly fond of World War II historical fiction and nonfiction.
Richard traveled extensively, enjoyed the theater and the arts, and had a quick wit and a wonderful sense of humor. His generosity, kindness and service to others materialized in many ways. He was always making something — from the woodshop or the kitchen — for his family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Robert Peiper, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. He is lovingly remembered by his best friend and wife of 63 years, Barbara (Pace) Peiper, and his children: Robin Mathias (Kip) of Melbourne, Florida; Robert Peiper (Jeannette) of Palermo, Maine; Wendy Peiper of Boston, Massachusetts; and Andrew Peiper (Sarah) of Makawao, Hawaii.
"Our dad was our guiding light, teaching us with patience and love. His unwavering support and gentle strength shaped us into the people we are today. We'll forever cherish the countless memories of his laughter, wisdom and endless love. Dad, you'll always be our hero."  "My beloved husband was not only a dedicated soldier but also my rock, my confidant and my greatest love," added Barbara. "His commitment to his country was matched only by his unwavering devotion to our family. His legacy of honor, integrity and love will forever resonate in our hearts."
The family would like to thank St Luke's Hospice in Leavenworth, Kansas, for their loving care. A private ceremony will be held at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the First United Methodist Church of Leavenworth, Kansas, or any charity of your choice. Graveside service will be held at Arlington National Cemetery Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 3 P.M.  Arrangements are coordinated through Davis Funeral Chapel in Leavenworth, Kansas.