Marvin “Pete” Peters Honored with 2012 Presidents Award
Mavin “Pete” Peters was recognized for his valuable contribution and long term impact of the McPherson business community during the McPherson Chamber of commerce annual meeting and business expo. He was selected for this award by the Past Presidents of the McPherson Chamber of Commerce.
Pete grew up in the McPherson and Galva area, being a McPherson County resident his entire life except for the time he attended college and duty in the U.S. Army while serving in the Kansas National Guard.
Pete attended elementary school in both McPherson and Galva. Graduating from Galva High School in 1955, he then went to Pittsburg State University, home of the Gorillas where he earned his bachelor’s degree. While there he met his bride to be Lucy. After their marriage in 1960, the young couple moved to McPherson where they took up permanent residence, and were blessed with two children, David and Abbey, and 6 grandchildren.
For the past 16 years Pete has served the dual roles of Marketing Director for the McPherson Board of Public Utilities and Executive Director of the McPherson Industrial Development co. He will be retiring from both positions at the end of 2012.
Pete says that over time he has seen remarkable change in both the city and county. Every business on Main Street has changed names or locations at least once. Population has more than doubled. His dad was a welder at a time when McPherson had less than a half dozen manufacturers. Now there are over 50.
Pete has served on a number of volunteer boards and committees and has been active in St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. He enjoys working outside and intends to spend a considerable amount of time beautifying his yard after he retires. He’d also like to renew his enjoyment of fishing, something he’s been unable to do for a long time. With a brother in Indiana and his son in Colorado Springs, some travel will also be on his agenda.
Congratulations, Pete, on receiving this award! We wish you much joy and happiness in your upcoming retirement.