Walter E. Peik was born on January 12, 1929 in Sumter Township, McLeod County, Minnesota. He was the son of Erwin and Mildred (Engbert) Peik. Walter grew up on a farm near Brownton, Minnesota and graduated in 1947 as Class Valedictorian. He then attended Hamline University in St. Paul, Minnesota. He completed his college years at St. Cloud State University in St. Cloud, Minnesota and was awarded a Master's degree in Library Science in 1965. Walter served his country in the US Air Force during the Korean War and continued in the Air Forced Reserves until 1963.

After returning from Korea, Walter held employment as a teacher in Slayton, Silver Lake and Mahtomedi, Minnesota. He then moved to Saint Cloud, Minnesota to teach at the St. Cloud State University. Walter held employment with the Department of Defense Dependents School System in Southeast Asia, first as a teacher, then as a Principal.

Walter retired in June of 1993 and moved to Hutchinson, Minnesota. He became active in the McLeod County Historical Society and was a member of the Regional Arts Council. He passed away on February 8, 2004.

-Alvin Miyatake '66


I worked in the front office for a while as an assistant. He was a very nice man and a good principal.
May God Bless his family!!!

-Tracy (Wright) Wilson '83


I remember Mr.Peik well. I spent some time in his office, but not as much time as I should have been accountable for. He was always fair and just, thats why I admired and respected him. He was sincere and patient with me, which was a challenge. He made a difference in my life.

Peace and blessings to his family.

-Craig J. Beaudry '81