Jeffrey Peterson

Surrounded by his loving family, Jeffrey Peterson, age 72, passed away on Wednesday, September 3, 2014, at Wheaton Franciscan – All Saints Medical Center.   Jeff was born in Racine on May 31, 1942, son of Ralph and Jean (Nee:  Grady) Peterson.  He graduated from Washington Park High School “Class of 1960”.

Jeff retired from the Racine Fire Department after thirty-three years of service, rising to the rank of Chief.  He was a member of the planning committee that founded the Garden of Hope adjacent to the Wheaton Franciscan Cancer Center. For many years he taught testicular self-exam to numerous boys and men through Racine high schools, employee health programs and other groups.  An avid fisherman and golfer, Jeff enjoyed traveling to Asia, Europe, the Bahamas and to his home in Cape Coral, FL.  He devoted his life to his family and in his words: “I’m a billionaire when it comes to family.”   He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.  Jeff will be deeply missed.

Survivors include his mother, Jean; his children, Jennifer Peterson of Grand Rapids, MI, Kevin of Japan, Daniel (Debbie) of Racine; three grandchildren, Eli MacDonald, Ella and Jack Peterson;  brothers and sisters, Richard (Diana) Peterson of Lake Arrowhead, Mark (Sue) Peterson of Greenfield, Mary (Tom) Christ of Treasure Island, FL, William Peterson of Madison, Christopher (Patricia) Peterson, Lisa (John) Nielsen, all of Racine; sister-in-law, Diane Peterson-Rogers of Lima, OH; significant other, Luan Wells; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ralph; his sons, Michael and Matthew; and brother, Jon.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2014, at 4 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Dr. Tony Larsen officiating.  Relatives and friends may meet with the family Saturday at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until time of service at 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Health Care Network Inc. have been suggested.

A very special thank you to Dr. Michael Mullane and staff, DaVita Dialysis staff, and Wheaton Franciscan Hospice staff for their loving and compassionate care.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine, WI   (262) 634-7888