Wayne Arnold Peterson, born on Oct. 6, 1944, in Red Wing, Minn., peacefully passed away at his home on Jan. 25, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.
Wayne was the beloved son of Helmer and Ethel (Bowen) Peterson. He graduated from Ellsworth, Wis. in 1962, after which he entered the Navy at the age of 17, serving honorably until his discharge in May 1964. His dedication extended into the workforce, where he spent six years at Circuitron in Baldwin before taking over his father’s milk route. Wayne further contributed to his community through his work at the Ellsworth Creamery and Introl, concluding his illustrious career with 28 years at Kolpack before retiring in 2006.
In April 1968, Wayne met the love of his life, Bonnie Knutson, whom he married on Dec. 7 of that year. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising three children until the sudden death of their daughter, Debbie, in 1994. With the help and support of close family and friends, they were able to continue in her memory and legacy. Wayne took immense pride in his role as a grandfather to nine grandchildren. His legacy further expanded with the addition of four great-grandchildren.
Wayne was an active member of the Men in Mission at Our Saviors Lutheran Church, where he found solace and community. His passions included fishing, tending to his birds, outdoor work, riding his lawn mower, doing puzzles and word finds, and cherishing moments with family and friends. Wayne’s warm heart and infectious humor will be forever remembered.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Bonnie, children Brian (Sandy) Peterson and Chad (Rachel) Peterson, grandchildren Brittni (Marcus) Diedrich, Krista (Paul) Asselin, Colby, Jacob, and Caleb Dotseth, Crispin (Brianna) Peterson, Greg (Leslie) Peterson, and Gracie Peterson, great-grandchildren Carson, Jordyn, Joseph, and Calvin, sister Janice Patterson, sisters-in-law Margie Peterson, Jan Eggen, and Judy Hanson, brother-in-law Gary Knutson, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Debbie, siblings Ken and Irene Van Allen, Keith Peterson, Tom and Judy Peterson, infant granddaughter Karina, brother-in-law Fred Patterson, and mother and father-in-law Burton and Grace Knutson.
Wayne’s grandchildren served as pallbearers and honorary bearers.
Funeral service for Wayne will be on Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Beldenville. Visitation will be on Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024, from 4-7 p.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran, and for one hour prior to the service at church on Thursday. Military honors performed by Kinne-Engelhart American Legion Post 204 of Ellsworth. Burial will be in Martell Lutheran Cemetery, Martell Township, Wis.
Keehr Funeral Home, (www.keehrfuneralhome.com) Spring Valley, is handling arrangements.
