Victor Floyd Peck

Victor (Vic) Floyd Peck, 81, of Woodstock, VA passed away on December 2, 2015 of Lewy Body Dementia. The family is grateful for the loving care that Vic received from the Greenfield Assisted Living Season's Care unit in Woodstock, during the latter part of his long struggle with this disease. Vic was born, March 5, 1934, in Cornwall, N.Y. along the Hudson River. He was the son of the late Floyd and Ida Peck from whom he inherited a strong love of nature, farming and teaching. Childhood Polio stunted his growth and severely limited his ability to participate in the sports and physical activities he longed for. He was even denied acceptance in the NY State University system because he'd failed to complete high school Phys Ed! These early frustrations strengthened his resolve and fostered the character of a man who was not to be denied. Following his graduation from Syracuse University, Vic did a tour of duty with the US Air Force. He served as a 2nd LT, stationed in Okinawa, Myako Jima, Japan. Upon his return to the states he earned his Master Degree and began a long career in the sciences. He enjoyed his students during his 20 years teaching high school Chemistry in Herkimer, New York, as well as college Chemistry in NY, and at Lord Fairfax in VA. In an oft told story, Vic recounted the eve of his first interview for a teaching post. He and his new bride, Mary Jean (Kelley) Peck, were pitched in a tent in a local park (money was tight) when they were rousted at midnight by some rowdy teenagers. Vic got the job and imagine the surprise some of his new students had when they recognized him and he identified each of them for the authorities! With characteristic good humor, Vic recounted that most of the boys turned out to be good kids and a couple even corresponded with him in later years. He was a natural, gifted teacher, and letters of appreciation from former students were a constant throughout his long life. Vic followed his teaching career with a ten year stint as a chemist and technical writer for GE's aerospace plant in Utica, NY. He was quick to laugh and owned a fine sense of humor. He enjoyed the back woods, skiing and woodworking, and most of the vigorous hobbies and activities that had been beyond his physical resources growing up. Vic and his beloved wife of 56 years, Mary Jean, relocated to Woodstock, VA in 1995. They quickly grew to love the Shenandoah Valley, which reminded them of their roots in Central New York. They farmed, taught, gardened, and even raised a couple of young horses which Vic, showing characteristic determination, attempted to break at age 67. Mary Jean predeceased him by six months. He is survived by three children and their families: daughter, Sharlene Blum, husband Michael and son Greg Blum, of Woodstock, VA, their son Jeff Peck, wife Michelle and children, Zack, Sarah Jane, Emma, Sydney and Max of Knoxville, TN., and their son Scott Peck, wife Heidi and children Lauren, Lindsey and Drew, of Superior, CO. He also leaves behind his beloved sister, Melanie (Peck) Van Ry and family in Port Leydon, NY. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation. Arrangements are being handled by Dellinger Funeral Home in Woodstock, VA A graveside service will be held for the burial of Victor F. Peck, who passed away on December 2, 2015 and a memorial for his beloved wife, Mary Jean Peck who predeceased him by 6 months. The service will be held on Saturday, December 12, 2015 at 10 am at the Sunset View Memorial Gardens, 2677 Fravel Rd, Woodstock, VA 22664.