"Jon and Pat, You don't know me, but I knew your parents when I taught English at Port Edwards. Your dad and I enjoyed a free period together and I found him to be wise, kind, and entertaining. I was so sorry to hear of his passing all those years ago. I read your mother's obituary in the "Daily Tribune" today. A fond memory popped up. It was when I got married in 1981 and your folks were unable to attend. A week later, your mom appeared at our home with a lovely wedding gift of bath towels. We had a nice chat and I loved how thoughtfully she looked in my eyes as she spoke. She was open and gentle and that's when I knew your parents were a perfect match. Please accept my condolences. In 1986, I was pregnant with my first child. Your dad shared insight and humor when I expressed my fear of the unknown. He recalled a little hill in your backyard where your mom used to sit and read to you. Like Winnie the Pooh's adventures, she called it the "100 acre wood." I thought it was a marvelous idea and did the same in our backyard. I made a sign that traveled with us when we moved across town. I'm so sorry for your loss. It's never easy to lose a parent, regardless of our age. May your fondest memories, keep your parents alive in your hearts forever. Sincerely, Cathy (Lobner) Reinke "
In loving memory of
Betty Lou Peterson
May 8, 1934 - April 26, 2020
Betty Lou Peterson, 85, of Rochester, MN died Sunday, April 26, 2020 at Shorewood Senior Living.
Betty Lou was born May 8, 1934 in Lakota, ND to Burton and Emma (Master) Burreson. She grew up in small towns in northeastern North Dakota where her mother taught school. For one year they lived in a one-room schoolhouse in rural North Dakota where her mother taught. They eventually moved to Michigan, ND where her mother taught elementary school for many years and where Betty graduated high school. This is also where she met her future husband, Cliff Peterson. After high school she went to Mayville State Teachers College in Mayville, ND where she got her education degree so she could teach elementary school. Shortly after getting her degree she married Cliff Peterson on June 11, 1958 in Michigan, ND. The couple lived in Petersburg, ND where they both taught. In 1963 they moved to Wisconsin Rapids, WI where Cliff taught and was a high school guidance counselor and where they raised their two children, Jon and Patrick. They moved to Rochester, MN in 1995. Cliff passed away in 2010.
She was an accomplished pianist, playing classical music and also playing for many weddings. She continued to play for her own enjoyment for most of her life. She had a flair for fashion, was an incredible seamstress and made many of her own clothes. She also enjoyed making her grandchildren's Halloween costumes. She enjoyed working in her flower gardens and always took pride in them. She also enjoyed helping take care of her grandchildren when they were young. Betty was a loving and devoted Mother and Grandmother.
Betty Lou is survived by her two sons, Jon (Mary Sirian-Peterson) Peterson of Rochester, MN and Patrick (Rebeka) Peterson of Bloomfield Township, MI and three grandchildren, Christopher, Emily and Lenna. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Cliff.
Betty's family is very grateful for the excellent care she received at Shorewood Senior Living over the last several years. We are especially grateful for these incredible people: Renato, James, Hope, Sandra, Melissa, Laurie, Amberly, and so many others.
A private service will be held at a later date in North Dakota.
Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes is honored to be serving the Peterson family. To leave a special memory or condolence please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com
Tributes
"Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We taught with your mom and dad in Petersburg from 1960 to 63. Good memories of them?"
"We are sorry to hear of Betty?s passing. We got to visit with her when we would visit my sister, Donna and Lyle. Wayne and Cliff were friends and classmates. Our sympathy to you two boys and families. Wayne and Marilyn Reep"
"My wonderful Aunt Betty will be missed very much. Much love from Alisa"