Dwight Frederick Peceny, age 83 of Grand Rapids, MI went to be with God on Sunday, January 1, 2017. He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Sarah Peceny; sisters Violet (Rich) DuVerneay, Constance (Dick) Nicholson; and sister-in-law Mary (Bergin) O’Brien. He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Margaret (Bergin) Peceny; sons Mark (Connie), Brian (Amy), Chris (Mishelle) Peceny; grandchildren Sarah, Hannah, Scott, Ragen, Emma, and Megan Peceny; brothers-in-law Leo R. O’Brien, John (Sue) Bergin, Mike (Gwen) Bergin; also many nieces, nephews, other family members and countless friends. Dwight was born in Grand Rapids, MI on March 12, 1933. He graduated from South High School in 1951 and earned his B.A. in History from Michigan State University in 1955. After serving in the U.S. Army for two years, he devoted himself to the education of students at West Kelloggsville Elementary School for 36 years. He initially taught sixth grade then served as the school’s principal until his retirement in 1994. In retirement, his main joy was being able to spend more time with his wife Margaret and family. They enjoyed attending local theatre, particularly musicals, dining out and spending more time with friends and family. For nearly two decades after his retirement, Dwight visited West Kelloggsville every week to read to the children. He also helped to prepare the next generation of teachers by mentoring student teachers at Aquinas College. Dwight was a voracious reader of classical literature and non-fiction history. He was an avid tennis player and runner and was a participant in the inaugural Old Kent 25K River Bank Run nearly 40 years ago. He was a lifelong sports fan, especially MSU football and basketball, Detroit pro-sports teams, and the West Michigan Whitecaps. Visitation will be Friday, January 6, 2-4:00 p.m. and 6-8:00 p.m. with a vigil service at 6:30 p.m. at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. S.E., Grand Rapids. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, January 7, 10:30 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, 1935 Plymouth Ave. S.E., Grand Rapids. Rev. Troy Nevins presiding. The family will also meet with friends and relatives one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a scholarship fund in Dwight’s name given out to graduating seniors of Kelloggsville High School at www.kvilleps.org, the Kids Food Basket at www.kidsfoodbasket.org , or to Faith Hospice at www.faithhospicecare.org.