Earl R. Peterson

Earl Rueben Richard Peterson was born on November 13, 1924 in rural Parkers Prairie to Hjalmar and Hanna (Lofgren) Peterson. He was baptized on December 11, 1924 at his home and confirmed at Ester Evangelical Lutheran Church. He attended country school through the 8th grade and attended high school at West Central School of Agriculture in Morris.

Earl farmed with his father until he entered the United States Army on January 27, 1945. He was a heavy equipment operator in the Pacific Theater, serving in Okinawa and Korea. He was discharged on December 8, 1946. After being discharged Earl returned to farm with his father. On April 8, 1950 he married Esther V. Erickson at Esther Evangelical Lutheran Church in Parkers Prairie. Following their marriage, they farmed in rural Parkers Prairie for 6 years, until he began working for Farmers Union which later became Cenex, where he worked until his retirement.

Earl was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Wanamingo, The Lions Club, the V.F.W., and other community organizations. Following months of declining health, he passed away peacefully on December 8 at Kenyon Sunset Home.

Earl is survived by his wife, Esther of Wanamingo; his four children, Warren (Gary Nack) of Minnetonka, Karen of Seattle, WA, Brian (Linda Anderson) of Lexington, SC, and Bruce of Eden Prairie; eight grandchildren; and four great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Glenn; and his sister, Petra Anderson.

A memorial service is scheduled for 11:00 AM Tuesday, December 14 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Wanamingo with the Reverend Clark Cary officiating. The visitation will be held from 4:00 until 7:00 PM on Monday, December 13 at the Mahn Family Funeral Home â?" Larson Chapel in Zumbrota and one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.