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Garth Peterson Obituary
1944 - 2012
Garth Nielsen Peterson (The Viking King), 68 passed away from cancer on November 27, 2012. Garth was born to Charles Elroy and Lela Nielsen Peterson at Murray Utah on September 3rd, 1944. Florence Nielsen was a nurturing second mother following the early passing of his mother, Lela.
He married Terry Lynn White on June 22nd, 1962, later sealed in the Salt Lake Temple Nov. 22nd, 1963. Children include Renee (Kevin) Nielson, Mark (Stacey) Peterson, Eric (Kimberly) Peterson, and Chad (Summer) Peterson with 14 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Terry preceded him in death. Married Jennifer Rushforth on June 7th, 2002, in the Salt Lake Temple. He was beloved by his second family Denise (Doug) Angus, Jana (Dan) Sorensen, Becky (Dave) Evans, Angie (Kevin) Fletcher and 16 grandchildren. He is survived by his two brothers, Gerald (Penny) Peterson and Keith (Linda) Peterson.
Graduated from the University of Utah with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 1968. Worked in the University of Utah Facilities Department, retired as Associate Director of Plant Operations after 43 years. Served in numerous positions of leadership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including a mission to North Carolina with his wife Jennifer. Loved hiking and wild flower identification (botany) with his children and grandchildren until cancer prevented him from doing so. He had a lifelong love of books and learning, and a great love for family and friends.
A viewing will be held at Larkin Sunset Lawn, 2350 E 1300 S, Friday evening from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. Services will be held Saturday December 1st, 2012 at 12:00 pm in the Monument Park First Ward Chapel, 1005 South 2000 East. A viewing will be held Saturday morning from 10:30 to 11:30 am in the Monument Park First Ward. Interment will follow at the Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Garth Peterson
Everett Smith
December 11, 2012
Growing up I always felt welcome in the Peterson household. Garth and Terry always welcomed you with a loving smile and a heartfelt hello. Garth loved the outdoors and his Jeeps and I can't help but think of him every time I see one. We are all better for having known Garth and he will be missed.
Glenn Seninger
December 8, 2012
Mark, my thoughts and prayers go out to you and Stacey at this time. I have many fond memories of Garth that I will never forget. It was a priviledge to have been able to camp, hike and get to know such a great man.
Judy Gradney
December 6, 2012
My peace be with you and family I wish you and family the best!
Jack C. Baxter
December 5, 2012
You will be missed. Thanks for the good and bad times or anytime.
Jack C. Baxter
December 2, 2012
I extend my deepest sympathy in the passing of Garth. I became associated with Garth as a vendor at the U.of U. I enjoyed his friendship during the many
years. God bless the Peterson Family
Howard Rindlisbacher
Dallas, Texas
December 1, 2012
It was my privilege to work with Garth as his secretary for 20 years. My respect for him is immense...and I have missed his sense of humor. Please accept my sincere sympathy for your loss. Maria Rounds-Andreano
Don Swenson
December 1, 2012
Dear Jennifer and family, Nola and I want you to know that we think of you often. We remember all the good times we had will you with the horses and other things. Our thoughts and prayers are with you now. We did not have the privilege of knowing Garth, but our son Doug told us that he was a wonderful man. We love you.
Que Collard
November 30, 2012
Garth managed Custodial Services with integrity and proficiency. I will remember Garth as a leader, mentor and friend.
Steve Leonard
November 30, 2012
The only person that I've known to take 10 scouts and one so called assistant (me)on a 50 mile hike in the High Uintah for 5 days. Also taking those same scouts and assistant to Little Cottonwood Canyon and finding a twin engines "Western Air Express later to became known as Western Airline" plane that crashed in the late 30s where 12 or 20 people died. Garth was able to find parts of that same plane. A hike inspired by a "Life Magazine issued 1938. A great guy that will be missed.
Max Parrott
November 30, 2012
Our condolences to your family. I had the opportunity and good fortune to work with Garth at the University. His presence will be missed. We look forward to the time when we all will be able to enjoy one another's company again.
Jerry Jensen
November 30, 2012
Thanks for expecting more from all of us that worked for you and with you. You challenged us to do better and brought out the best in each one of us
Florien Wineriter
November 29, 2012
Jennifer,Keith,and Gerry, my sincere sympathy. Garth brought joy, happiness and goodness to our troubled world. I'm pleased to have been a part of his wide circle of friends. Flo
November 29, 2012
Garth was a wonderful man and the best of brother-in-laws. We loved to hike with he and Jennifer and learn about flowers and shrubs as he was so knowledgeable. He loved the beauty of the earth. We spent many hours on the trail together....but just try and keep up. He was a wonderful missionary and a true disciple of Jesus Christ. We love him very much.
Gordon and Kay
Jennifer Rideout
November 29, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with the family
Carolyn Morgan
November 28, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. So glad for our short association with your Father. He raised a very special daughter. So wonderful to know that you will see him again.
Vern Della-Piana
November 28, 2012
Garth and Terry were great people, Garth was one of the most dependable neighbors anyone could have.
Paul nielsen
November 28, 2012
We are both saddened by Garth's passing. It makes me understand that we cannot plan the length of time we have here on earth. We wish all the best to his extended familly, especially to his wife and children. May peace be with you all.
Lisa Hanson
November 28, 2012
I am sorry to see that your father has also passed. At least he is with Terry now. I enjoyed being their neighbor for the short time I lived there. Your mom and dad were always gracious and smiling whenever I saw them.
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