Robert Michael Peal '73

"Mike" Peal passed away on 22 May 2025 in Bel Air, MD. He was 74 years old.

Born in Charleston, WV, to Robert and Jewell Peal, he grew up in Boone County, WV, graduating from Scott High School in Madison, reporting to USNA in June 1969. In June 1973 he graduated as a proud member of the 18th Company. Mike was an avid fan of wrestling, a key player on the 1972 Brigade Championship soccer team, and earned the lifelong nickname "Nanner" with his classmates.

After graduation in 1973, Mike attended Nuclear Power School in Bainbridge, MD, followed by the Naval Nuclear Prototype Training Unit (NPTU) in Saratoga Springs, NY. His first Fleet assignment was in Charleston, SC, aboard the JAMES MADISON, SSBN 627. His expertise led to a final assignment as a Nuclear Engineering training officer at NPTU in Idaho Falls, ID.

After leaving the Navy Mike went to work for Pennsylvania Power & Light at the Susquehanna Steam Electric Power Station in Berwick, PA. Mike enjoyed a distinguished 27-year career in senior management positions, including an assignment at the Institute of Nuclear Operations (INPO) in Atlanta, GA, before finally retiring in 2011.

Mike's outstanding reputation led to a consulting position with the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) focused on operator training and improvements for both South Korea and Japan nuclear plant operations. He also enjoyed volunteering at the National Aquarium in Baltimore and tutoring in support of Baltimore City Public Schools.

Mike loved his family, traveling with his wife, reading, fishing, and spending time with his friends. Mike made it a point to keep in contact with everyone in the 18th company. He was a voracious student of military history and was always up for a discussion of military campaigns and battles of any era with keen insights into strategy and tactics used.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Carol Kerney Peal, their daughters Megan Elizabeth Peal (Tim Offutt) and Melissa Peal Davis (Byron Davis), two grandchildren Piper and Sebastian Davis, and his sister Mary Jewell Cox (Doug Cox) and her family.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Donations in Mike's memory can be made to Canine Companions (Santa Rosa location) via this link or checks may be mailed to:

Canine Companions

Attn: Northwest Region

P.O. Box 446

Santa Rosa, CA 95402-0446