Russell John Peterson was born Nov. 27, 1928, on the family farm in Waverly Township to Harry and Irene (Peterson) Peterson. He grew up on the family farm and attended country school until going to Trimont High School, where he graduated. Russ was drafted in the U.S. Army and enlisted into the paratroopers. He served stateside during the Korean War and was proud of his military service. On Sept. 6, 1952, Russ married Dorothy “Dotty” Gardner at the Methodist Church in Ceylon. He started working at Christensen Lumber after returning home from his service. Not long after, he opened his own cabinet making business and worked until the age of 84. Even after retiring he couldn’t sit still and continued woodworking for friends and family from his garage. In his free time, Russ enjoyed bowling, golfing, fishing, and duck hunting. He was in bowling league and was the oldest bowler in a bowling league up until the Covid-19 pandemic prevented him from playing. He was an avid golfer, had a lifelong membership at Rose Lake Golf Course and played every week up until two summers ago. In July of 2021, Russ and Dotty moved to Northfield to be closer to some of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Russ was a family man first. He never missed a game when his kids were growing up and enjoyed every opportunity he had to attend his grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s events and games. It was common for Russ to help with his family’s remodeling projects, and even built his house in Fairmont. He would even make cribs, tables, chests, and other items for family and friends. Russ was a wonderful man and will be deeply missed. Russ is survived by his wife, Dotty; children, Julie (Max) VanRiper of Blaine, Mark (Dawn) of Maplewood, and Joanie (Randy) Juhlin of Calgary, Alberta; grandchildren, Kristin (Chad) Holz, Noah (Becky) VanRiper, Jesse (Alison) VanRiper, Ashley (Ryan) Beardmore, Ian (Jenna), Jena (Noah) Skara, Matthew Juhlin, Meghan Juhlin; and great-grandchildren, Lauren, Tyler, Eilee, Abby, Ella, Wren, Jackson, and Harper. He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Maxine. Memorials are preferred to Fairmont American Legion, 300 Downtown Plaza, Fairmont, MN 56031.

COMMENTS

[vivafbcomment]