Valerie "Val" Irene Peak, 83, of Wichita, KS, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 25, 2025.  Born in Birkenhead, England on August 28th to Edward Stowell-Smith and Emily Louise Rimmer.  She was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandma, great-grandma, auntie and friend to many.

She grew up in England and after graduating high school, Val moved to New York City with her best friend.  She met the love of her life "Jim" while in New York.  While waiting for Jim to discharge from the Navy, she lived with her future-in-laws and held various jobs.  She was married for 60 years to the love of her life, the late Jim Peak, and together they built a strong and loving family.  Valerie dedicated much of her life to nurturing others, both as a mother of three and through her work in childcare.  She had a home daycare for a few years and then she worked as a paraprofessional for the Wichita School District for many years.  Her gentle spirit and unwavering patience touched the lives of many.

Outside of her work and family, Valerie found joy in creating beautiful stained-glass art, sewing and most of all, spoiling her grandchildren--her greatest source of pride and joy.  She was also an active member of the West Side United Methodist Church.  She brought warmth, creativity and kindness wherever she went.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim; parents, Edward and Emily; daughter, Lisa Gayle; brother,

John; sisters, Beryl and Margaret; granddaughters, Emily and Kaitlyn and many beloved pets.

She is survived by her beloved children; son, Todd Peak; daughters, Tracy Lolley (Greg) and Terri Bosley (Scott); seven cherished grandchildren, Miranda (DJ); Jesse; Keri (Chad); Brianna (Claudio); Cheyenne (Brad); Gabrielle (Cody) and Gatlin; 11 cherished  great-grandchildren; brothers, Kenneth Stowell-Smith (Deb) and Roy Peak (Jan) and many nieces and nephews.  Valerie's legacy of love, care, and creativity will live on in all who knew her.

A celebration of life will be held at 10 am on Thursday, May 8th, 2025 at West Side United Methodist Church; 1313 W. Lydia in Wichita, KS.

Memorial contributions can be made to Ronald McDonald House or West Side United Methodist Church.