Donald Peterson

Donald Wayne Peterson, age 84 passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 7, 2014 at Comforts of Home in Frederic, WI. He was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Johanna; daughter, Susan; parents, Gust & Marie (Paulsen) Peterson and brother, Curtis. He will be greatly missed by his son, Scott (Lori) of Bethel, MN; grandsons, Travis (Alissa) of Elk River, MN; Kyle of Bethel, MN; sister, Francis Rode and brothers Gerald and Morris (Patricia), along with many other relatives and friends. Donald was born in Frederic, WI on October 27 th , 1929 and remained in the area throughout his childhood. After graduating from Frederic High School he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. While stationed in Austria he met his future wife Johanna. They married on Dec. 22, 1952 in Switzerland. After his discharge from the military the couple moved to Minneapolis where he attended Dunwoody Technical Institute and studied architectural drafting. They settled in the Twin Cities area, first in Columbia Heights and later in New Brighton. Donald was employed by Pacal Steel Company for 29 years & later RebarFab until his retirement in 1995. They adopted two children, Scott in 1962 and Susan in 1964. Donald was a great father, a devoted husband and an amazing Grandfather (Pop) to Travis and Kyle. Donald had a knack for making friends and was one to always offer help to others. He always kept a positive attitude, no matter what life threw at him.Anyone that knew Donald would agree that he was one of the nicest guys anyone could meet. In 2005 Donald & Johanna sold their house in New Brighton & bought a home in Frederic, WI. Donald was home once again. During his final years he spent many hours in his woodshop, which he loved, building lamps, clocks, small tables and many other things. He also enjoyed visiting with family and old friends. Donald lost Johanna in February of 2011. He remained in his home until July of 2012 and then moved to Comforts of Home in Frederic until his passing. Thank you to Comforts of Home for their care & support during his time there. Donald was a simple man with a big heart. “Well done buddy, till we meet again”. We love you Dad. Memorial service to be held at Grace Lutheran Church in West Sweden, WI on Friday, May 2, 2014 at 11:00 am with a gathering one hour prior to service and a lite luncheon to follow. Private burial at a later date. Arrangements by Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Homes.