John G. Peterson
Obituaries
Reports of Area Deaths
1931-2021
John G. Peterson went to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, Apr. 1, 2021, at the age of 89. He was the loving husband of the late Beverly I. (nee Gados) Peterson and the beloved father of Jon (Janice) Peterson, Anne Marie (Robin) Smith, and James (Carrie) Peterson. He was the proud grandfather of John, Johanna (fiancé Ben Stewart), Jacklyn, and Jana Peterson, MariAnna Smith, and Zoe, Jamie, Samantha, and Elijah Peterson.
John was born in Medford, on Sept. 9, 1931, to Herman and Ella Peterson. He had four older sisters, Esta Mae, Eleanor, Eila Ann, and Unita Lois, all of whom preceded him in death. He was confirmed at Whittlesey Lutheran Church and he later graduated from Medford High School in 1949. He lived his early life on the family farm and later worked in logging and construction. After high school he served in United States Army Corps of Engineers. After his honorable discharge he worked a variety of jobs, eventually moving to Milwaukee.
John met his wife, Beverly Gados, in Milwaukee through a mutual friend. They were married in South Milwaukee on Nov. 21, 1959. While living in Milwaukee he worked first at Bucyrus Erie and then became a machinist at Dude Auto parts on Milwaukee Ave. in South Milwaukee. While working at Dude’s he developed a reputation of being one of the best machinists in the state. When Bob Dude, the owner of Dude’s, retired, John and three other employees bought and continued to operate the business until all four retired.
Besides being a “jack of all trades”, John was interested in his family history and stories, and an active participant in the life of Grace Lutheran Church in Oak Creek, and more recently St. John’s Lutheran Church in Cudahy. He loved and celebrated his Danish heritage, and he was a huge fan of Peanuts, especially Snoopy. He always enjoyed home improvement projects – both in his home and the homes of his children. He was always willing to share his time and expertise, helping others with everything from car repairs to home repairs and improvements.
John was known for his straight-shooting dealings, his long-lasting friendships, kind spirit, and stories. He knew everyone and collected and shared both family stories and, local history. He loved being a part of his grandkids lives and would attend their school events, church activities, and sporting events. He enjoyed traveling and learning things at the places he visited. John always had an active church life and was also a member of The Gideons International.
We will all miss his smile, his stories, and the love and support he provided.
Paid Obituary 103444
