Richard "Rick" Joyle Peters passed away on July 21, 2024 at his home in Madill, Oklahoma. His story began in La Mesa, California where he was born on November 7, 1950 to parents Ola Boyce and Francis NaVon Peters.

Rick attended Granite Hills High School where he excelled academically and was a gifted member of the choir.

After graduating in 1968, Rick knew he wanted to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Army. With a goal of joining forces in Vietnam, Rick became a member of the Charlie Company C Rangers, a special forces unit that completed daring and dangerous missions. He was awarded medals for his valor and courage as a result of his participation during the Vietnam War.

In the early 1970s, Rick was honorably discharged from the military. He then made his way back home where he honed his skills in construction and became a member of the San Diego Sheriffs Department horse mounted search and rescue. His talents in carpentry can still be admired from the streets of Little Italy.

Oklahoma became Rick's second home in the early 1980s where he spent time working as a carpenter in Madill.

Upon his return to San Diego, Rick took up residency in Little Italy where he became a popular figure, making friends of passersby from the comfort of his second floor balcony. He passed the guardianship of the beloved little apartment to his son, Matthew, before returning to Oklahoma where he spent the remainder of his life.

From an early age, Rick accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and was active for many years in the Trinity Baptist Church located in El Cajon, CA. His faith was evident in his generous and forgiving spirit.

Rick is survived by his children, Ruth Beeber, Richard Peters II, Dennis Peters, Matthew Peters, and Justin Peters; grandsons Christian, Orran, Magnus, and Daniel Peters; granddaughters Audrey Christensen, Melissa Atkins, and Megan Baker; great-grandson Declan Christensen; sister, Gail Alvarez; best friend, Dennis Jones; and Granddogs Buddy and Hobbes. He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings David Peters and Judy Stevens.

He will forever be remembered for his keen sense of humor, cooking skills, passion for reading, and his signature "Howdy" greeting.