CURRENT CELEBRATIONS

Leslie “Peck” Viereck Jr.

Peck lived 99 years with an energy that defined his tenure as a second-generation vegetable farmer in Woolwich Township. He died on September 6, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of cultivated asparagus, dedication to family, and frugal spending.

Following his mother’s death when he was 12, he was raised by his father and his sister Jean. It was during this era that Peck earned his reputation for mischief, once famously riding his pony directly through the family home.

He was a man of specific habits and high standards for machinery. He spent a lifetime cultivating 100-plus acres, where his asparagus pack was considered king. His love of farming inspired two more generations to follow him.

Even in his eighties, Peck could be found on a tractor, though he was equally notorious for his “affliction” regarding vehicle front ends. He was convinced every vehicle he ever owned had a pull to the left.

He had a lifelong love of Cadillacs but always dreamed of owning a Town Car. He was most at home outdoors, hunting and fishing during his free time.

Peck was a man who understood the value of a dollar, often driving 10 miles out of his way to save two cents on a gallon of gas. His favorite haunt was the Golden Pigeon, where the $10 specials were so generous they’d feed you for days.

Peck was affectionately called “Wheels” because he was always going somewhere, whether out with friends or on an off season vacation. He hated the cold and sought the warmth of Mexico.

Peck was a graduate of the Class of ’44 from Swedesboro High School and later was a member of the Swedesboro Woolwich Board of Education. He also held positions on county agricultural boards and Woolwich Township boards.

Peck was a dedicated family man, attending their son’s and grandchildren’s activities and working on the farm together. Peck “looked at” the Phillies every night and spent his later years tuning into Match Game and Password Reruns.

He met a pretty girl named Charlotte at a local dance. The two would share a 62-year marriage blessed by his four sons, Leslie III (Karen), Larry (Stephanie), Robert (Jody), and David (Marcia); 11 grandchildren; 2 step-grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; five step-great-grandchildren; and his special friend, Betty Howard. He was predeceased by his wife, Charlotte, an infant son, William, and his sister, Jean.

Come celebrate 99 great years Tuesday, September 15 from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM at Daley Life Celebration Studio, 1518 Kings Highway, Swedesboro, where there will be an 11:00 AM service. Interment Lake Park Cemetery, Swedesboro.