John Overly Peck

In 1958, State Senator August Wagner declined to seek re-election, and Peck ran to succeed him in the 26th district, which included Nance and Platte counties.^[3] In the nonpartisan primary, he faced farmer George Louis,^[4] and placed first, winning 56 percent of the vote to Louis's 44 percent.^[5] They advanced to the general election, where Peck narrowly defeated Louis, winning 51–49 percent.^[5][6]

Peck ran for re-election in 1960,^[7] and was challenged by Louis in a rematch of their 1958 race.^[8] In the primary election, Peck placed first over Louis, winning 57 percent,^[9] and they advanced to the general election.^[10] Peck defeated Louis to win re-election, receiving 55 percent of the vote to Louis's 45 percent.^[9][11]

In 1962, Peck ran for re-election,^[12] and was re-elected unopposed.^[13][14] However, Peck declined to serve his third term, citing a desire to spend time with his family.^[15] Governor Frank B. Morrison appointed Fred Gottschalk to serve out Peck's term.^[16]

Peck died on March 29, 1979.^[2]