Gary Peters is an American lawyer, politician, and former military officer who has served as the senior United States Senator from Michigan since 2015. A member of the Democratic Party, he previously represented Michigan’s 14th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2009 to 2015. Before entering politics, Peters worked in finance, business, academia, and the U.S. Navy Reserve, where he served for over ten years, reaching the rank of Lieutenant Commander.
In this article, we will explore Gary Peters’ age, height, family, wife, career, net worth, early life, military service, political journey, and lesser-known facts. Let’s dive into the life and accomplishments of this influential politician.
Gary Peters Short Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gary Charles Peters |
| Stage Name | Not Available |
| Profession | Politician, Lawyer, Former Military Officer |
| Hometown | Pontiac, Michigan, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Date of Birth | December 1, 1958 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 66 years old |
| Height | 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) |
| Weight | 80 kg (176 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Gray |
| Zodiac Sign | Sagittarius |
| Political Party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Colleen Ochoa |
| Children | 3 (Gary Jr., Madeleine, Alana) |
| Military Service | U.S. Navy Reserve (1993–2008) |
| Rank | Lieutenant Commander |
Early Life and Education
Gary Charles Peters was born on December 1, 1958, in Pontiac, Michigan. He is a fifth-generation Michigander with deep roots in the state.
Family Background
- His father, Herbert Garrett Peters, was a public school teacher and a World War II veteran who served in the U.S. Army.
- His mother, Madeleine Vignier, was a nurse’s aide who met his father in France during WWII. She played an active role in unionizing her workplace.
Education
Peters attended Rochester High School before pursuing higher education. He holds multiple degrees:
- Bachelor of Arts in Political Science – Alma College (1980)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) – University of Detroit Mercy (1984)
- Juris Doctor (JD) – Law Degree – Wayne State University
- Master of Arts in Political Science – Wayne State University
- Master of Arts in Philosophy – Michigan State University (focused on ethics of development)
His impressive academic background laid the foundation for his future career in finance, military service, and politics.
Military Career
Gary Peters joined the United States Navy Reserve in 1993 at the age of 34 and served for over 10 years. His assignments included:
- Serving in the Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 26.
- Supporting Operation Southern Watch in the Persian Gulf.
- Deploying for military activity following the September 11 attacks.
- Earning the Seabee Combat Warfare Specialist designation.
- Attaining the rank of Lieutenant Commander before retiring in 2008.
Awards & Recognition in Military Service
- Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal
- Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal
- Graduate of the College of Naval Command and Staff, U.S. Naval War College (2018)
Peters’ military service played a significant role in shaping his leadership skills and commitment to national security.
Political Career
Michigan Senate (1995–2002)
- Elected to the Michigan State Senate in 1994 from the 14th district.
- Served two terms, becoming a Democratic Caucus leader.
- Focused on education, economic growth, and environmental issues.
- Passed landmark legislation banning oil drilling in Michigan’s Great Lakes.
U.S. House of Representatives (2009–2015)
- Defeated Republican Joe Knollenberg in 2008 to represent Michigan’s 9th Congressional District.
- Advocated for the auto industry bailout, small businesses, and consumer protection.
- Helped shape the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act.
U.S. Senate (2015–Present)
- Elected in 2014, replacing retiring Senator Carl Levin.
- Re-elected in 2020, defeating Republican John E. James.
- Served as Chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (2021–2025).
- Chaired the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (2021–2025).
- Became Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security Committee in 2025.
Key Legislative Achievements in Senate
- Championed bipartisan bills in areas such as national security, veterans’ benefits, and infrastructure.
- Secured historic funding for Great Lakes restoration.
- Led investigations into cybersecurity threats and election security.
- Supported healthcare access and prescription drug affordability.
Family and Relationships
Gary Peters is married to Colleen Ochoa, and they have three children:
| Family Member | Role |
|---|---|
| Wife | Colleen Ochoa |
| Son | Gary Jr. |
| Daughter | Madeleine |
| Daughter | Alana |
They reside in Bloomfield Township, Michigan.
Physical Appearance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) |
| Weight | 80 kg (176 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Gray |
Net Worth and Income Sources
Gary Peters has a net worth estimated between $1.7 million and $6.3 million. His sources of income include:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $1.7 – $6.3 million (approx.) |
| Primary Income Source | U.S. Senate Salary ($174,000/year) |
| Additional Income | Investments, Book Royalties |
Lesser-Known Facts About Gary Peters
- He is an Eagle Scout and received the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award in 2019.
- He started working at age 11 by delivering newspapers.
- He served as Michigan Lottery Commissioner from 2003–2008.
- He teaches finance at Wayne State University.
- He is a member of the Sons of the American Revolution.
- He loves motorcycling and takes annual motorcycle tours across Michigan.
- He played a key role in the auto industry bailout during the Great Recession.
- He was the most bipartisan Democrat in the Senate (2023) according to Lugar Center rankings.
- His ancestor served in the American Revolution alongside George Washington.
- He helped secure federal funding for infrastructure improvements in Michigan.
FAQs About Gary Peters
1. How old is Gary Peters?
He is 66 years old as of 2025.
2. Who is Gary Peters’ wife?
He is married to Colleen Ochoa.
3. What is Gary Peters’ net worth?
His net worth is estimated to be between $1.7 – $6.3 million.
4. What is his military rank?
He served as a Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve.
Conclusion
Gary Peters is a respected politician, veteran, and advocate for Michigan. His career spans finance, military service, and public office, making him one of the most effective leaders in Congress.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only.
