Adam Peck, Ph.D.
Born: March 22, 1973
Died: September 30, 2022
Dr. Adam Peck passed away in Carle BroMenn ICU at the age of 49 following a sudden accident.
He was preceded in death by his father, William “Bill” Peck, grandparents, Aldena and Robert Peck and Martha and Melvin Bush, and everyone’s favorite cat, Smitty.
He is survived by his mother, Marsha Bush Peck, wife, Michele (nee Jackson), children Jackson Noble and Jocelyn Jennifer, brother William Aaron Peck, and many adoring nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Over the years, he “adopted” many students and treated them like his own
children.
Originally from St. Elmo, IL, he later moved to Belleville, IL and graduated from Belleville West High School. Adam earned his Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from Lewis University, a Master of Arts in Communication Studies from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Administration from The University of Texas at Austin.
Adam was an educator for more than 25 years. His body of work is enormous. To name a few contributions, he wrote and edited several books, authored more than 50 scholarly publications, edited several journals, and presented more than 100 national and international webinars. He inspired thousands of students. He served on many national and state boards, was a frequent keynote speaker at conferences, and presented on at least 48 campuses around the U.S. and internationally.
Adam and his wife, Michele were married for nearly 23 years. The family spent 13 years in Nacogdoches, Texas, where he was a faithful and active member of Westminster Presbyterian Church. Adam served as Assistant Vice President and Dean of Student affairs at Stephen F. Austin State University. Adam left a legacy at SFA. He advised many student organizations, lived “The SFA Way,” revived the axe handle tradition and was a key member of the campus-wide COVID-19 response team.
He joyfully created and took on the role of Purple Santa at SFA and is remember as the first SLU Blue Santa at Saint Louis University.
The family recently moved to Bloomington, IL where Adam began his new position as Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs at Illinois State University. Always an ally and an advocate, he worked on many Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives including The Rainbow Floor. He raised safety and awareness through the Night Walk program.
Adam loved making music, especially serving as band leader at the infamous Jackson Christmas Eve. His comedic timing, dad jokes, juggling, and gregarious sense of humor were the highlight of every gathering. Adam’s special charisma captivated everyone from colleagues to friends and family; he had a rare gift for making everyone feel important and he managed to touch the lives of countless people.
Adam was an incredibly generous person and will continue to provide help for others through Gift of Hope. October 1, 2022, Adam was celebrated with an Honor Walk. To date, three people have received life-saving organs because of his gift.
A celebration of life will be held at First Baptist Church Fairview Heights in Fairview Heights, IL at 10 a.m. on October 15, 2022. Lunch in the fellowship hall to follow is open to all who attend. Additional memorials and honors in Texas and Illinois to follow.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift in his name to one of the following organizations:
McKendree University:
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SFA FTK Children’s Miracle Network:
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Carle BroMenn ICU:
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Special instructions: ICU
NOROC New Opportunities for Romanian Orphan Children:
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