Stephen Jennings Peter of Mecosta, Michigan died Thursday, October 15, 2009 in his home after a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born in Kingston, Michigan, May 21, 1940, to Francis and Maxine Peter. Steve was a popular student and a talented professional; he received his Bachelor of Science Degree in 1963 from Central Michigan University majoring in Mathematics and Science. Mr. Peter began his career teaching physics at Grand Ledge High School and later took a position with the State of Michigan Department of Education. He rose to the position of Director of the Data Processing Center and retired in 1997. Before moving to Mecosta in 1998 Steve lived in Okemos, Michigan and served as a Trustee for Meridian Township. Steve was an active member of the New Hope United Methodist Church where he served as Lay Leader, member of the Administrative Council, Chairman of the Endowment Fund, a Stephens Minister as well as past Chair of the Finance Committee. Additionally, he served as President and Board Member of the Ferris State University Wesley Foundation. A strong advocate for helping others, Steve was Coordinator of the Mecosta County Tax Aid Program with more than 30 volunteers who provide pro-bono tax preparation services to the community. He was an avid outdoor adventurer and enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating and other outdoor activities. He was an active member of the Mecosta County Rod & Gun Club where he taught Youth Hunter Education and was a member of the Canadian Lakes Fishing Club. He chose to live in Mecosta because he loved the people, the lakes and the wildlife. Steve is survived by his wife of 46 years Sandy (formerly Sandra Stankrauff), his daughter Kristyne and her husband Paul Williams, Karen and her husband Steven Russell and grandchildren Adam and Alex Russell, brother Fredrick Peter and his wife Joan, nephew Michael and his wife Carrie, niece Michelle and her husband Ken Buggia, and nephews James and David Green. Funeral services will take place 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 19th at the New Hope United Methodist Church near Mecosta. The family will greet friends at the church on Sunday October 18th from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and also one hour prior to services on Monday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the New Hope United Methodist Church, Mecosta County Rod & Gun Club "" Hunter Safety Program, or Hospice of Michigan.