Eugene Arnold Peer, known affectionately to everyone as "Gene," passed away peacefully at sunrise on the snowy morning of Jan, 25, 2026 at home in Garland, Texas, after a longand courageous journey with Alzheimer’s. He was surrounded by love, with family and his two small dogs by his side.

Born on the family farm in Boscobel, Wisconsin, on March 11, 1942, Gene’s early life was defined by humble, hardworking roots. He attended the Wisconsin Valley School, a one-room country schoolhouse that housed grades one through eight. It was a simple beginning, complete with a wood-burning stove, an outhouse, and no telephone, but it sparked a lifelong passion for learning. Gene went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and a Master’s degree in Education and Administration from East Texas State, now known as Texas A&M.

Gene dedicated his professional life to shaping young minds. After teaching fifth grade for three years in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, he moved to Texas and served the Richardson Independent School District for over 30 years. He worked as a guidance counselor and Principal at both Wallace Elementary and Canyon Creek Elementary. He was beloved by staff and students alike, earning a reputation as the "fun principal" the one who made learning and laughter go hand in hand. Even after retirement, he couldn't stay away from education and worked with student teachers at the University of North Texas.

His life was equally defined by his devotion to family and faith. Gene met the love of his life, Kathleen "Kathy" Chaney Peer, and their union was sealed with deep spiritual significance. After taking Catholic instructions at Christ the King Catholic Church in Dallas, Gene made his first Holy Communion on his wedding day. He and Kathy were married on December 21, 1968, at the Holy Hill Basilica and National Shrine of Mary in Hubertus,Wisconsin.

Gene was a man who loved to be the center of attention and possessed a loud, friendly laugh that could fill any room. He was known as the "fun dad" to his children, Kimberly and Mark, as well as to their friends. He loved to stay busy and go places, especially if the outing involved a good meal and dessert, which he never skipped. A massive baseball fan,Gene combined his love for the game and his social nature by selling tickets for years at the Texas Rangers stadium. He cherished throwing the ball around with his grandkids and attending their games.

His compassion extended to animals as well. Together with Kathy, he fostered many dogs,and they happily "foster failed" five times, turning temporary guests into permanent family members.

Gene is survived by his devoted wife, Kathleen Chaney Peer; his daughter, Kimberly Peer McGuire ( Marc Mcguire) his son, Mark Peer; (Nicole George Peer) and his sister, Alice Peer Turner(Larry Turner). His grandchildren Mark Peer Jr, and Matthew Peer. He joins his parents, Virgil Peer and Vera M. Kling , and his grandparents, Cecil and Hazel Hagarty Peer, in eternal rest.

A funeral mass will be held on his 84th birthday, March 11, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church 600 S. Jupiter Rd, Richardson, Tx 75081. Following the mass, friends and family are invited to a reception featuring a eulogy by Mark Peer, pictures, food, and visiting to celebrate a life well-lived.

Throughout his life, Gene lived by a simple motto that he often shared with his students and children: "Do the right thing."

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Alzheimer’s Association or support for local animal rescues through adoption, fostering, or contributions. https://act.alz.org/site/Donation2