James I. Peter, 66, of Austin, formerly of  La Crescent, Minn., passed away in home on Aug. 16, 2013, surrounded by his wife and daughters, whom he deeply loved and cherished.

He was a Veteran of the U.S. Navy serving his country in Vietnam. He was born in Caledonia, Minn., Nov. 15, 1946, to Oswald and Jeanette (Eikens) Peter. He will deeply missed by his wife of 47 years, Linda. He is also survived by his daughters, Paula Grendys (Rick) of Murrysville, Pa., Joanie Peter of Durham, Md., Lori Peter of Meriden, Conn., and three grandchildren, Evan, Anna, and Adam Grendys. He grew up in Caledonia and graduated from Loretto High School where he was known to dislike English and Math, but loved History.

He was an instructor of and diesel mechanic for his working career. He loved restoring antique Allis Chalmers tractors and riding his John Deere tractors. He enjoyed the warm winters in Arizona, riding bike, golfing and outdoor recreation. He loved camping, hiking, and fishing at Camp Winnebago. Surviving siblings are Kathleen Jennings (David), Donald Peter, Jean Coldwater (John), Robert Peter (Sue), Larry Peter (Siri); nieces, nephews, and many good friends. Celebration of Life is 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 7 at Camp Winnebago, Caledonia, Minn. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to be given in his name to Cancer research.