Robert E. Petersen

Robert Eugene Petersen, age 98, passed peacefully on Sunday, August 4, 2024, with his family by his side. He was a lifelong resident of Racine, born on December 21, 1925, the son of the late Henry and Marion (Nee: Anderson) Petersen.

Robert proudly served in the U.S. Army during WWII in the European Theatre earning a Purple Heart. On returning to Racine, he was employed by the U.S. Postal Service for 35 years, retiring in 1981. Robert was united in marriage to Grace Dacquisto on April 21, 1951, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. They were blessed with 60 years of marriage before her passing. Robert was a member of Sacred Heart Church. He enjoyed all sports. He coached many of his son’s youth teams. He will be remembered for his twinkling blue eyes, smile and storytelling abilities. Above all he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who will be dearly missed.

Survivors include his children, Gary (Geri) Petersen, Gloria (John) Zwifelhofer; grandson, Wesley Robert (Nicole) Zwifelhofer; sister, Kathy (Frank) Cetrano Jr.; brother, Richard Petersen; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents and wife, Robert was preceded in death by his brother, Donald (Grace) Petersen; sister, Eleanor (Frank) Thill; in-laws, Barb Petersen, Anne (Louis) Schifano, Frank (Doris) Dacquisto, Frances (August) Cacchione, Helen Dacquisto, Dom (Hilda) Dacquisto, Sarah (Ron) Arndt.

Funeral services will be held at the funeral home, Monday August 12, 2024, 11 am with Deacon Ed Benvenga officiating. Entombment with full military honors will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, Hwy 32. Relatives and friends may meet prior to the service 10-11am.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Emily of St. Croix Hospice and to Jennifer Eastman, Senior Living Advisor for their support and loving care.