Walter Ralph Peck, 72, of Helena, passed away while surrounded by family on December 1st, 2022, after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. He will be remembered for his love of family, selfless spirit, tireless work ethic, and joyous smile.
Ralph was born July 3, 1950, to Walter (Bee) Hyer Peck and Tess Snow Peck in Lewistown, Montana. He grew up with two older sisters on a ranch near Garneill. As young kids, Ralph and his sisters loved roaming the ranch, which meant exploring the barn, playing in haystack houses, and building rafts on the pond. They enjoyed many community gatherings with family and friends. As he got older, Ralph brought the milk cows in from pasture every night by riding on their backs. He even convinced a big bull to let him climb between his horns for a ride, which scared his dad into selling the bull. Ralph loved the outdoor ranching life and working with his dad, who used wooden legs after losing both limbs in WWII. Ralph was active in 4-H and FFA where he received the Montana State Crop Farming award. Extreme allergies forced Ralph off the ranch, but they didn’t stop him from building a 40-year career advocating for the Montana agriculture industry.
Ralph obtained a bachelor’s degree in business management and a master’s degree in agriculture business and economics at Brigham Young University. He worked at the Montana Department of Agriculture for 25 years, serving nearly ten years as Director on the cabinets of Governors Marc Racicot and Judy Martz. He also worked as Assistant Dean for the College of Agriculture at Montana State University, Chief of Staff to Secretary of State Brad Johnson, and an independent reviewer for the U.S. Department of Energy. In 2015, he retired as an administrative officer for the USDA Veterinary Services. Ralph was recognized for outstanding work throughout his career. Honors included the Montana Governor’s Award for Excellence and the Montana State University’s Outstanding Agriculturalist Award. Closer to home, he earned awards for best water-skiing wipeouts, biggest backcountry snowmobile jumps, and world’s best dad.
On August 9, 1975, Ralph married Julie Ann Anderson in Lewistown and moved to Helena shortly thereafter. They enjoyed 47 years of marriage full of deep love and respect for each other. The two cherished their time together. They loved camping, boating, traveling and playing pinochle with friends. Family is their greatest treasure. Their first child, John, was born in 1978, followed by Jennifer (Jenny) in 1980, Adam in 1984, and Daniel (Danny) in 1987. Ralph loved loading everyone up in a Minnie Winnebago for adventures across the West, including annual camping trips at Holland Lake. He tried to teach everyone how to waterski, but his kids could never match his slalom skills. And when the snow started flying, he would get so excited he couldn’t sleep. Ralph loved floating through the powder on a snowmobile. When the kids’ sled kissed a tree, he patiently taught them how to fix it using a power tool or hot glue gun. Ralph could fix anything in his prized shop.
Ralph lived a life of service and always offered a helping hand to family, friends, and neighbors. His mother described him as an ‘angel in the outfield’ who knew when to show up to help those in need. Ralph faithfully served in many callings for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He also supported Julie’s ministries at Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church. Ralph was a good man who touched many lives.
Survivors include his wife, Julie Ann Peck of Helena, MT; and their four children, John Walter Hyer Peck (Margaret) of Seattle, WA; Jennifer Lynne Kariuki (George) of Renton, WA; Adam Douglas Peck (Katelyn) of Seattle, WA; and Daniel Stephen Peck of New York, NY. Ralph was the cherished Grandpa of Elizabeth Wanjiku “Cikû” Maina, Julia-Rose Mumbi Maina, Edith “Edie” Ann Peck, Abigail “Bee” Parks Peck, Tess Margaret Peck, Aiden Walter Peck, and Caleb Gordon Peck. He is also survived by sisters Mildred Colleen “Miki” Peck (Ken Bayles) of St. George, UT; Pamela Tess Fillmore (Denny) of Nampa, ID; and many nieces and nephews. His parents preceded him in death.
The family extends grateful appreciation to the many caregivers who helped Julie care for Ralph in his last year of life.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 9, 2022, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1610 E. 6th Ave. A reception will follow. Burial will follow the reception at Forestvale Cemetery. The funeral will be live streamed via Zoom at https://tinyurl.com/WRalphPeck. ID: 94458247294, Password: Helena1
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ralph’s name are suggested to the Michael J. Fox Foundation (michaeljfox.org), Rock Steady Boxing (rocksteadyboxing.org), the Montana Future Farmers of America (montanaffa.org) or Helena Snowdrifters Club (PO Box 5505, Helena, MT 59604)
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Friday December 9, 2022
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
1610 E. 6th Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Following the Service
Friday December 9, 2022
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
1610 6th Avenue
Helena, Montana 59601
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Friday December 9, 2022
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
1610 E. 6th Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Following the Service
Friday December 9, 2022
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
1610 6th Avenue
Helena, Montana 59601
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Joan Locke says
Dear Julie and family,
Although our friendship was relatively new thru a marriage, the first time Jeff and I were introduced to both Ralph and yourself, we felt it would become a strong bond. Ralph’s charisma was quickly noticed and admired. We mourn the memories lost by his illness. We are sending strength, prayers, and our love to you and the family. Jeff & Joan
Dave Galt says
I was a colleague of Ralph’s in the administration of Governor Judy Martz. Ralph was a solid agency director and always provided sound and wise counsel. I was able to visit with Ralph and Julie earlier this fall while campaigning door to door. Ralph’s illness was advanced but he was cognizant and all smiles. Julie, Ralph and I had a good visit. I could tell by his eyes and smile he knew what was going on. I could also see the love of God those eyes of his. I wish Ralph everlasting peace and joy with Our Lord. And I wish God’s peace andcComfort to Julie and his family.
Joe Williams says
Had a number of opportunities to work with Ralph back in the day. He was a genuinely nice man with a good sense of humor and a keen eye for details. Nothing but good memories for a kind and decent individual.
Wally Melcher says
Ralph, you were a cherished and good friend. You always wore a warm smile and were eager to help with the projects that I had going on no matter what they were. You and Julie were always wonderful examples of kindness and concern for others. Ralph, your circle is complete my friend and you have been welcomed into the loving arms of our Savior and older brother, Jesus Christ. Rest well brother!
NAN LEFEBVRE says
Ralph was my first boss in state government. He hired me in 1983 at the Department of Agriculture. He was such a delight to work with and just to be around. Ralph always had that great smile every time you saw him. He would light up the room.
I am saddened by the news of his loss and his family and friends are in my thoughts and prayers. Ralph was a great public servant and a wonderful human being.
Tracie Tuss Grimm says
Julie and Families, So sorry to hear of your loss. He will be remembered fondly by a great number of people. May God Bless You Real Good! You are in my thoughts and prayers now and in the days to come.
Dale Newell says
I really only knew Ralph through his boys, John, Adam and Danny. The Peck boys worked for me in succession for almost a decade at Bill Roberts Golf Course. I would run into Ralph and Julie on occasion when they were delivering lunch or dinner to their working boys. The boys were very smart, hardworking and always optimistic. I know these were traits instilled into them by their parents. I have employed over a hundred teenagers in my career and the Peck boys were very special. Their work ethic was unsurpassed and there wasn’t any task they couldn’t handle. They were definitely my I.T. department, public relations department and even great at picking the range.
Ralph will be missed greatly but his legacy is in good hands with his children and great grandchildren.
GOOD JOB RALPH!!
My sincere condolences to the Peck Family
Devon Holden says
Ralph was one of the best at hosting a good card game at the Peck household. Over the years, I have had the pleasure of spending time with Peck boys through work and friendship. Even though I didn’t get to spend as much time with Ralph, I have to thank him and Julie for raising such awesome children who have become some of my best friends. They say you can change the world by raising good people. Ralph excelled at this by being a great person and father. The world lost a good one but his legacy will continue when his grandkids can teach me the next card game:)
Love you guys and sending hugs from Ohio.
Karla Maez says
Julie and Family
I am so sorry to hear of Ralph’s passing. My brother Jan and Ralph were best friends growing up in Montana. Jan and I had so many fun times with Ralph, Pam and Miki. When our Mom and Dad traveled for Dad’s business we always stayed with Aunt Tess and Uncle Bee and had so much fun with the family. Ralph was a wonderful friend to Jan and such a good person. My love and prayers are with you all. May Ralph be at peace. Love to you all.
Karla Galbreth Maez
Kimberly Neumen says
My condolences to Julie, Jenny and family. Ralph was always so kind when I would visit the home to hangout with Jenny. In later years, I enjoyed seeing his kind smile and greetings at church. I know he was a cherished friend to my parents. Love to you all.
Kimberly (Melcher) Neumen
Benedictar Kariuki says
Benedictar Kariuki (Kenya)
Dear Jenny and Family
May God bring you and your family courage, peace, comfort, and strength during this difficult moment.
We love you and our prayers are with you. God Bless You.
Vicki & Rick Chapman says
Julie & family, Our sincere thoughts and condolences to you and your family for your great loss.
Carrie Bushlen says
Julie and family,
My condolences to you and your family for your loss. Your family is in my prayers during this time. Peace be with you.
Don Andrews says
Ralph was a great guy we snowmobiled a lot together is was so easy going will miss you butches don andrews
Jon & Diane Oldenburg says
Dear Julie and family, We were so sad to hear of Ralph’s passing but are certain he is now free of pain and lighting up the Heaven’s with his personality and smile! Hold onto your family memories and enjoy those always. We go back a long way with Julie and Ralph and cherish those good times. May he rest in peace.
Love from Jon & Diane Oldenburg
CATHY FERGUSON says
Julie and children I am saddened by the loss of your husband and father. My condolences to you and your family. I know John and Julie from Rossiter School.
Charlotte Hafer says
Dear July and Family, We are so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Love, George, Charlotte, Cheyanne and Nathanael Hafer
Linda Nelson says
So sorry to read of Ralph’s passing. He was the Director of Montana Department of Agriculture when l chaired the Agriculture Committee in the House of Representatives. We were a part of agriculture leadership that went to China, Japan, Taiwan, and Beijing to promote Montana products. He was a nice person and represented Montana well. God’s peace be with you all.
Mary Jo says
That smile! I´m so honored to have had the time spent with him and helping you care for him. He will always have a special place in my heart as you will. He made my job very easy being the sweet, loving man he was. I also admired him for smiling through it all even on the tough days. You are and were the most amazing, patient, loving wife to him. I seen his appreciation and love for you every time he would look at you. I will always be here to continue to support you and pray for peace in your heart and the loving arms of our father around you during this difficult time. Ralph you will truly be missed.
Mary Jo
Murielle and Julius Kihumba says
Dear Jenny and family,
We are really sorry for your loss. Sending our deepest condolences. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Murielle, Julius, Rémy, and Émilie.
Rose Wangeci (Kenya) says
Dear Jenny and Family,
We convey our heartfelt condolences. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Douglas Fierberg says
What a beautiful description of someone who had such an interesting, full life and loved, and was loved by, so many. I’m terribly sorry for your loss.
Josh munene says
Our sincere heart felt condolences to uncle George kariuki and family for the departure of your and our loved one, may God grace be sufficient enough to take you through this life happenings and may hope and faith lead you to unity of our departed dear loved ones in eternal life
Josh munene says
Loving, concerned and caring uncle
anthony kariuki and family says
Our family got to meet Ralph and his amazing family for the first time in 2008 when he warmly welcomed us to the family’s home in Helena to celebrate Jenny’s and GK’s wedding. To date we still have those fond memories of all the fun activities he planned and coordinated so well, making us feel at home and a part of the family that he so loved and cared about. During out short stay he taught us to fish in his boat and brought us boating, a few of the many activities he enjoyed engaging the family in. He also spoke to us compassionately about his love for family and his joy for Jenny’s and GK’s companionship. The family bond he created during our short stay has grown stronger over the years and we have witnessed nothing short of compassion, generosity and kindness from Ralph and the amazing family that he and Julie have raised together. May the multitude of cherished memories of Ralph’s amazing character,give the family peace and comfort,as the family heals from the unimaginable loss of a loving husband to Julie and a loving dad to John, Jenny, Adam and Danny . His loving spirit will live on through the amazing family.
We send our love, comforting thoughts and prayers during this moment of grief.
Debbie Hurni says
Dearest Julie and family
Our hearts go out to you. Praying for peace for your family. Sending hugs and love.
God bless
Ndegwa Family says
Though we first met Ralph (and Julie) at Jenny and George’s wedding, it is what followed after that remains in our hearts. We were invited to Thanksgiving the following year where they even held a birthday party for my almost 2 year old. Later we would cross paths on many occasions. Ralph was always such a welcoming person. We easily felt a part of their family. I know he leaves a hole in the Peck family and beyond, but let all the happy memories fill the void. Let the love you have for each other be a salve to your grief. We send our love and mighty hugs during this difficult time. The Ndegwa family.
Tim McInerney says
Deepest condolences to the Peck family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Integrity Nurse Consulting says
We are going to miss Ralph, our ranching and haying talks. We are so honored and thankful to have been allowed to be a part of Julie and Ralphs lives. Julie we will keep you in our thoughts and prayers! Julie and Rae Lynn
Maryanne Kimani - Kenya says
Anne Family says,
Our heart felt condolences to George, Jennie and the entire family. May the Lord grant you peace and strength during this period and may Love keep you warm all through.
You are in our prayers.
Liz Warner says
My deepest condolences to the Peck family and all of Ralph’s friends. He leaves such a legacy of love through his family and community. I pray for peace and healing for you all in his memory.
Clive Rooney says
Ralph hired me out of college at the Montana Department of Agriculture in 1987. I remember Ralph as a good and kind man who knew how to work the ropes of state government. Ralph always had a smile and a warm heart. God gets a good hand back.
Njogu and Sara says
To the entire Peck Clan,
Our deepest condolences on Ralph’s passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Njogu’s
The Pratt Family says
Our sincere condolences to Julie and the Peck family. Lyle remembers fondly his working relationship with Ralph when Ralph was at the Montana Department of Agriculture and Lyle was at USDA. Driving across Montana together to attend meetings afforded them time to build a strong friendship and a deep mutual respect. Meeting Julie through Our Redeemer’s church was an extraordinary blessing to Lyle and June, and they cherished this 40-year friendship with Ralph and Julie that has persisted over time and distance. Ralph was a man of deep integrity and character, and will truly be missed by all of us who had the honor and pleasure of knowing him.