Donald W. Peterson

Donald W. Peterson, age 90, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Born in Racine on June 4, 1934, he was the son of the late Harve and Jane (née Knocke) Peterson.

Don graduated from William Horlick High School, Class of 1952. He proudly served in the U.S A. Army as a calligrapher (decoder) in the Army Securities Agency while stationed in Japan. On September 17, 1976, he married Marjorie "Pat" Pier. Following Pat's passing, Don was fortunate to find love again and married Jeanne Nielsen, with whom he shared the past sixteen years. They enjoyed traveling to Door County many summers to enjoy the scenery. Don and Jeanne were passionate about gardening, and they were particularly proud to have been included in the Racine Garden Tour. Their shared love for gardening brought them joy and a sense of accomplishment.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Harve and Jane Peterson; his first wife, Marjorie "Pat" Pier; his step-son, John Nielsen; and his siblings.

Don was employed by SC Johnson for 26 years until his retirement in 1987. He was a dedicated member of Trinity Lutheran Church and a man of many talents. He enjoyed being a handyman, traveling, woodworking, attending Racine Symphony performances, and following John Van Thiel, known as "Elvis," to his various venues. Don always had a smile for everyone, and when asked "How are you?", he would always reply with his signature humor, "Pretty good for an old man!"

Don will be deeply missed by his wife, Jeanne; step-daughters Renee Thomas and Julianne (Timothy) Flaherty; step-daughter-in-law Susan Nielsen; step-grandchildren Brian Edgar, Joel Edgar, David (Jill) Nielsen, and Krystle (Jason) Stolzel; great step-grandchildren Taylor Edgar, Austin Edgar, Brianna Edgar, Natalie Nielsen, Matthew Nielsen, and Corbin Stolzel; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff of St. Monica's Senior Living for their support and compassionate care.

A memorial service, followed by Full Military Honors, will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2065 Geneva Street, on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. David Gehne and Rev. Stephen Jennings officiating. Visitation will take place at the church on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Interment will be held at a later date at the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Trinity Lutheran Church (for Don's Shop) are suggested.