On April 14th 2020, life’s closing-time came, so Richard Peel Sr. flashed the lights, locked the door and made his way home. Rich lived his life enriching the lives of others with a sense of humor and infectious laugh that could fill a room. He could draw you in with a funny story or crack you up with a perfectly timed one-liner. He was the kinda guy who just made a good time even better. They say there’s “one in every crowd,” and it was him.

Before starting his career as a machinist, he served his country aboard the USS Bearss, a destroyer in the US Navy (which might explain some of his more colorful language). After leaving the Navy, Rich married and moved from Camden to Pennsauken NJ, where he raised three children; Linda Mason (Mark), Beth MacHenry (Paul ) and Richard Peel Jr (Jeanette). Rich gave back to his community during this time, serving as a volunteer paramedic on the Pennsauken First Aid Squad for over 20 years.

Rich later expanded his family when he married Jane Peel, his wife of over 20 years, and gained three more children; Grady McCafferty (Paul Antonini), Jason McCafferty (Marsha) and Jodie McCafferty. From the moment they met, Rich ​and Jane were truly partners in life and did everything together. They eventually moved to Beverly Hills, Florida, where they purchased a home and spent their time enjoying sunny days, motorcycle rides, “swimming pools and movie stars.” They made the life they wanted....”and they lived happily ever after.”

Rich’s love of life will be carried on by his friends and family including his 9 grandchildren, three great grandchildren (two are currently “en route”) and one great nephew. While we are heartbroken by our loss, we find peace in knowing that Rich is reunited with his father, George Peel Sr., his mother, Jean Peel, and his brother, George Peel Jr. and George's two daughters, Lori Peel & Julie Gibson.

So, with a “Mahna-Mahna” and one final “Air-Raid,” we raise up our Kamikazes in honor of Richard Peel Sr., until we meet again.