Donald Paul Peiffer Jr.
Donald Paul Peiffer Jr., of Washington, died Monday, March 14, 2022, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born April 21, 1950, in Lebanon, a son of the late Donald Paul Peiffer Sr. and Lydia Betta Peiffer.
Donald graduated from Lebanon Catholic High School and continued his education at Widener University earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Science Education, and a Master’s degree in Environmental Science from Shippensburg University.
Mr. Peiffer proudly served his country in both the United States Marine Corps and Army. He served in the USMC 1973-1976 earning the rank of first lieutenant. His time in the Army spanned from 1976-2000. He served in Bosnia and Sarajevo as an intelligence officer. His duty station was the National Ground Intelligence Center in Charlottesville, Va. He retired as a lieutenant colonel from the United States Army Reserve.
Donald was employed by the Department of Mine Safety Health Administration for 32 years as a forensic scientist. He was also a recruiter for West Point.
He enjoyed skydiving, reading, woodworking and gardening, and visiting national parks. But most of all, he loved spending time with his family.
Donald was a member of Our Lady of Miraculous Medal Church.
On December 15, 1973, Donald married Sandra Buck Peiffer, who survives.
Also surviving are his daughters, Jennifer R. McClay (Bradly Friedline) of Washington, and Kristy M. (Thomas) Ritz of Clayton, N.C.; sisters, Donna Marie Merritt (Gary) of Huntsville, Ala., and Kim Kaehler of Harrisburg; grandchildren, Bradlee McClay, Haylee McClay, Reagan Ritz and Carson Ritz; and many nieces and nephews.
Donald was preceded in death by his brother, Irvin Peiffer.
Friends and family will be received from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 17, in William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 1 p.m. Friday, March 18, in Our Lady of Miraculous Medal Church, 200 Pike Street, Meadowlands, with Father Thomas Gillespie as officiant.
Military honors will be accorded by the USMC and American Legion Post 175.
Interment will follow in the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies.
Arrangements have been entrusted to William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd. Additional information and a guest book are available at NealFuneralHome.com.