Darrell Peckman

Darrell Dean Peckman, of Paola, Kansas, died peacefully at his home with his family by his side on Wednesday, December 13, 2017 at the age of 77. He was born at home on July 24, 1940 to Frank M. Peckman and Della L. Peckman (Windler). He attended elementary school at Trinity Lutheran in Block, KS and graduated from Paola High School in 1958. He went on to receive a bachelor degree from Emporia State Teachers College in 1963. He was married to his wife Kathy for 43 years and they lived/worked together on their farm in Block. Darrell first worked for Western Auto, Liberty Loan, and then later hired by Ted Lewis for 1st Option Bank (1st National Bank) in Osawatomie, KS. In 2002, he retired as a Senior Vice President, having serviced many as a conservative agriculture loan officer. Often, he enjoyed performing as a buyer for various 4-H sales. Darrell sincerely cared for his customers believing a handshake was his promise and word. The Church was central to Darrell whose faith was strong throughout his life. He was passionate about music and sang tenor in the church choir, frequently soloing at over 120 funerals, many weddings and baptisms. At age 11 he even made a record singing a part of Handel’s Messiah. Darrell was an active member of Block’s Ruritan chapter, the Rotary Club, and 4-H. He sincerely enjoyed farming and helping his brother maintain the family business, Peckman Angus Inc. He hunted quail and pheasant in Kansas and elk in Washington state. He also tried ocean fishing in Neah Bay, Washington. He valued the trips he and his wife took to Mexico, Cayman Islands, South America, Jamaica, Canada, and Alaska; he was most at home camping/fishing in the mountains of Colorado. As husband, father, son, brother, uncle, friend he was often described as big hearted, patient, a hard worker, and loved unconditionally. His survivors include his wife, Kathy A. Peckman (Whisner), his children Shelley D’Amato of Paola KS, Beth D’Amato of Atlanta GA, and Erica Peckman (Chris Hamm) of Shawnee KS; a brother and sister-in-law, Lloyd Peckman and Virginia; plus many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and brother, Ralph. Both the visitation and funeral service for Darrell will be on Monday, December 18,2017 at the Trinity Lutheran Church, Block KS starting at 9:30am. Memorial contributions may be left to either Trinity Lutheran Church (www.trinitylcms.org) or Olathe Hospice (www.olathehealth.org). Family and friends are encouraged to post their condolences and memories on Darrell's Tribute Wall.