Richard Peckham

Richard Judson Peckham, 76, Adoption Attorney, passed away Saturday, September 17, 2021.

His love for the Lord was the foundation of his life. It was expressed in his love for his family and his service as an Elder, Bible teacher, church Trustee & President and Board member of the Pregnancy Crisis Center.

Richard served in the Army during the Vietnam War, receiving the U.S. Army Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service. He earned a BA in Journalism from Michigan State University and a Juris Doctor from Western State University.

Richard married JoAnn Ruedebusch in 1970, staying together through thick and thin for the next 51 years. They served together as parents of seven children and partners in Adoption Connections, Inc. for over 45 years.

He was a Staff Attorney for the Social Security Administration and became the Vice President & Chief Steward of the Staff Attorney’s Association. He eventually established his own General Civil Law Practice and conducted numerous successful defenses for Home School families throughout the state of Kansas.

Richard was elected to the Kansas State Board of Education and was appointed by the Governor to serve on both the Kansas Commission on Education and the Kansas Advisory Committee on Children and Youth.

Richard was preceded in death by his son, Thomas Peckham and parents, Albert and Rose Peckham. Survivors include his wife, JoAnn Peckham; children, John Peckham (Michelle), Karen Brummer, Susan Yourdon (Bryan), Stephanie Bottorff, David Peckham (Taylor), and Joseph Peckham; siblings, Stephanie Hamlin and Jeff Peckham (Kathy); brother-in-law, Gary Ruedebusch (Ginger); 20 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren (Three more on the way), 8 nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Tuesday, September 21, at 1:30 pm, Metro East Baptist Church, 333 N. 143rd St. E. Viewing will take place one hour prior to services. Share condolences and view tribute video at www.cozine.com. Services by Cozine Memorial Group-Broadway Mortuary.