Victor Farley Peckinpaugh

     Victor F. Peckinpaugh age 81, passed away peacefully at his home in Alma, Michigan, on Monday, December 1, 2025, with his loving wife and partner, Deanna, at his side. A lifelong resident of St. Louis and Alma, Vic was born on February 3, 1944, to Wallace and Lucille Peckinpaugh.
     Vic shared 46 years of marriage with his devoted wife, Deanna (Cook) Peckinpaugh, building a life rooted in hard work, family, and enduring love. He was preceded in death by his parents, his grandparents who he spent many of his younger years with, his daughter Andrea Peckinpaugh, and his sister Jan Anderson. He is survived by his sister Joyce Davis of Mt. Pleasant, MI; his children: David Peckinpaugh of Lewiston, MI; Jennifer Hetzman of Knoxville, TN; and Bryan (Amy) Peckinpaugh of Redford, MI; as well as his four grandchildren: Mikaila Haupert of Asheville, NC; Britta Fish of Knoxville, TN; Uriah Peckinpaugh of Midland, MI; and Isabella Peckinpaugh of Reford, MI. He is also lovingly remembered by his five great-grandchildren: Ava, Harlo, William, Jaxson, and Jenna.
     A 1962 graduate of St. Louis High School, Vic went on to study welding and mechanics at Ferris State University. He built his career as a professional welder and pipefitter at Dow Chemical in Midland, where he worked for 30 years. After retiring from Dow, he continued to put his exceptional skills to use as an independent contractor, helping renovate homes throughout the community, along with occasional welding and pipefitter jobs with the union. Known for his ability to fix anything, Vic was always the first to show up when family or friends needed help with a home repair, a car issue, or a motorcycle in need of attention.
     Vic had a lifelong love of speed, tools, and the open road. He raced motorcycles and ATVs of nearly every kind—flat track, endure, ice racing, and more—once had a nickname of “broad slider,” and served as president and treasurer of a local motorcycle club. In later years, he treasured road trips with his close friends, exploring the country on two wheels. He also enjoyed camping with his family, spending time at the lake, taking vacations, and maintaining his home, garages, and barns with a level of organization and care that impressed everyone who knew him.
     In the late 1980s, Vic, Deanna, and their children poured countless hours into restoring an old farmhouse and property—work done with the same grit and pride that defined his entire life. Vic and Deanna continued to call that farmhouse home, filling it with warmth, laughter, and memories.
     Vic will be remembered for his spunk, his classic smile, his relentless work ethic, his metal and mechanical skills which he shared with his children and others, and the countless ways he supported those he loved. His life was one of craftsmanship, loyalty, and unmistakable heart. He will be deeply missed.
     Private burial will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery, St. Louis, MI. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
     Online condolences may be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, St. Louis, Michigan.