Gary W. Peterson

Peterson, Gary W.  age 64, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on May 12, 2019. He was the only son of Dick and Lucille Peterson.  In 1974 he married the love of life Sue Bartush, where they made their home in Elk River and had three daughters, Erin, Liz, and Jenny. Gary served his community as a Deputy Sheriff and Emergency Manager for the Sherburne County Sheriff’s Department. In 2006 he retired from Law Enforcement after 33 years, and then went on to work with Minnesota Homeland Security Emergency Management (HSEM) where he currently was the Regional Program Coordinator for the Metro Region.

A handyman at heart, he could always be found tinkering on engines, woodworking, or putzing around the cabin in Grand Marais. His love of John Deere Green could be seen in his driveway, his mugs, and his attire from winter gloves to summer lawn chairs. He enjoyed going “tractoring” with his buddies, plowing fields in Little Falls, and travelling to swap meets around the state.  Gary perfected the “Long MN Goodbye” and could always tell you one more story, whether it be about his new 110 tractor, grandkids, or the war on woodchucks in the backyard.

Gary held many titles throughout his life…Rocky, Pete, Skipper, Curly, but his favorite and most proud was “Papa”. He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren, Zoie, Zeke, Rosemary, and Penelope.

He is lovingly survived by his wife, Sue of 45 years, and his 3 daughters who will miss his smile forever,  Erin (Josh) Arneson, Liz (Rusty) Baker, and Jennifer (Adam) Scheel. Forever missed by special family Brodie Schaefer and best friends Bruce West and “Dakotaman” Gisch.

We would like to thank the nurses and doctors of Mercy Hospital 4Heart, and ICU, with a special thank you to Dr. John Lee.

A Celebration of Gary’s life will be held at Chow Mixed Grill 14043 Business Center Dr.  Elk River, MN. on Monday May 20, 2019 from  2-6 PM; with a prayer service at 4 PM. John Deere attire is encouraged. 

A private burial will be held at later date. In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to the family.  Arr. Dare’s Funeral Home 763-441-1212 www.daresfuneralservice.com

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