Donald Elmer Peterson, September 24, 1934 - September 23, 2017
Our Mom’s husband, our Dad, Grandfather and Great Grandfather died September 23, 2017, one day before his 83rd Birthday. The usual cake, ice cream and phone calls were planned for his Birthday. Our Birthday plans and life changed forever with his cardiac event and fall, but not as much as dad’s life changed that morning.
Dad was able to do the things he loved right up to the end of his life. He loved working on his house, cutting firewood and building his cars. Some of the things we considered work, were what defined him. Dad got his energy and strength from creating and using his talents. He was a skilled welder, woodworker and artist. Dad showed us that work is important and… doing what we love is equally valuable for a happy life. We learned our work ethic and joy of our surroundings from our parents.
We are very saddened to have lost our Dad, a man that loved life and his family. Dad taught us so much about living and now, about death.
A few paragraphs cannot sum up the value of a man’s life, how much he loved us and our love for him. We know we will not hear him laugh, get advice or hear stories from our dad, stories about the deer in their yard, his wasp whispering talent, their trees or of his beloved dog, Hemi.
Donald Elmer Peterson was born in Atlantic Mine, Michigan and was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer John Peterson and Eileen Tapio Peterson; his sisters, Beatrice and Susan and his brother, John.
Dad is survived by his loving wife Beverly Peterson; Marsha Daniels will reside at the family home with our mother to ensure her continued health and well being. Surviving children are Kurt (Jerri Gruber) Peterson, Marsha (Steven) Daniels, Scott (Amy Pace) Peterson, Morgan J. Peterson, and Nancy (David) Regis. His Grandchildren are Ronnie Anderson, Morgan S. Peterson, Nicole Thiry, and Nathan Peterson. Great Grandchildren are Chase Anderson, Page Rautanen, Lila Rautanen, Ashlynn Peterson, and Rylan Peterson.
Dad’s wishes were to be cremated; a private celebration of his life will take place at a later date.
The Erickson Crowley Peterson Funeral Home in Calumet is assisting the family with arrangements.