Robert Wilson Peden, known to his friends and family as Bob, died in Greenville on May 17, 2023 at the age of 71. Bob passed from this world the same way he lived in it-calmly, cogently and with a dry sense of humor to the very end. He spent his final days surrounded by people he loved.
Bob was born in Fountain Inn, SC, and spent his childhood surrounded by his Peden and Wilson cousins before moving up to the big city of Greenville. He was a proud graduate of Furman University and remained connected with his alma mater throughout his life, attending football games, lectures and lifelong learning classes through the OLLI program.
After graduating from Furman University in 1973, he joined the Army and served for 21 years, attaining the rank of Lt Colonel. His distinguished career included leading logistical operations in the Gulf War and in the humanitarian intervention in Somalia.
Bob retired from the Army in 1994 and returned with his family to Greenville. He retired again in 2007 after a second career in private sector logistics. Free at last to focus on his hobbies and interests, he spent his time traveling to see his children and grandchildren; arguing with Peggy Noonan’s WSJ columns; volunteering for causes he cared about; and reminding his kids to get that knocking sound in the car engine checked out.
He was an easy person to be around-a calming presence in good times and bad, an attentive listener to anyone who needed to be heard, and honorable above all else. He will be missed dearly.
Bob is survived by his wife, Louise Earle Peden; his daughter, Sydney Pinnen (Christian); son, Wilson Peden (Claudia); and grandchildren, Annabel, Luca, John Christian and Sacha.
He was predeceased by his father, Robert Alexander Peden, mother, Eva Wilson Peden, and brother, Frank Donald Peden.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. at Fairview Presbyterian Church followed by a graveside service in the Fairview Presbyterian Church Cemetery at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Fairview Presbyterian Church Cemetery Fund or Upstate Forever.
Friends are encouraged to share their favorite memories of Bob with the family by clicking on the button labeled “Leave A Message, Share A Memory” below.