Bernard Chauncey Peters

Born November 24, 1933, a son of Chauncey and Helen (Haney) Peters, Bernard was raised in Oquawka, Illinois. On April 2, 1955, Bernard was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Mildred Smith.

He served with the Army Corps of Engineers before returning to Western Illinois University to earn his Bachelor’s degree. He continued his education at the University of Illinois, earning his Master’s degree, and finally his Ph.D. at Michigan State University. He accepted a position to teach at Northern Michigan University, where he was a Professor of Geography, until his retirement in 1994.

He loved researching early Michigan history, and had many articles published in academic journals. His research also led to two books, published by Northern Michigan University Press. In his free time, he enjoyed fishing in Lake Superior and playing tennis and golf during the long, hot UP summers.

He was predeceased by: his wife, Mildred Peters; his parents, Chauncey and Helen Peters, and his sisters, Rosalie Prempas and Patricia Fuller.

He is survived by: his children, B.J. Peters, Lori Peters-Roxburgh, David Peters, and Katherine DuVernois; his grandchildren, Veronica (Peters) Novak, Stirling Peters, Jasmine Roxburgh, and Camille DuVernois, as well as, three great- grandchildren, he is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

The family will hold a private celebration of life at a later date.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com