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BORN
1956
DIED
2015
Kathleen Peterson Obituary
Clear Lake, MN
August 30, 1956-June 2, 2015
It is with great sorrow that we say goodbye to Kathleen Marie Peterson who passed away at home with her family on June 2nd. She showed us that pain can be faced with humor, grace, and dignity.
Kathy was the eldest of two daughters born to Dutch and Marie Kirchner (Berry) on August 30th, 1956. Kathy had a large heart, and a compassionate soul, spreading kindness to all of those who crossed her path.
Her radiant smile could light up a room, and melt your heart all at once. It was that beautiful smile that Dick Peterson, her high school sweetheart, and loving husband fell in love with more than forty years ago.
Her enormous capacity to love and her generous soul made her the kind of mother her two daughters felt honored to have. When grandchildren came into her life, she showered them with her loving and tender ways. They treasured her just as much as she did them. They affectionately nicknamed her "Rah Rah," (Grandma) a name she loved.
Kathy was a lover of nature, animals and especially flowers. To say she had a green thumb would be a vast understatement. The flowers she grew and loved so much seemed to return her love by growing in abundance under her attentive care. Flowers followed Kathy throughout her life, in her exquisite gardens surrounding her home, as well as in her artwork. Kathy was a talented artist, quilter, and crafter. She earned a degree in Studio Art from the College of St. Benedict. Her creativity and keen eye for design made everything she touched a work of art. She infused our home with love, warmth, and beauty. It felt safe and good simply to be near her. Kathy will be missed every day. To be in her presence, was to feel loved. Rest in peace Kathy, our "Queen of Hearts". "Heaven is underfoot, as well as overhead." ~Thoreau
Kathy was preceded in death by her father Dutch Kirchner. She is survived by, and will be profoundly missed by her husband Dick, daughters, Kelly Altmann (Brian) and Sarah Rysavy (Michael), her grandchildren, Baylee & Norah Altmann, and Lukas & Christian Rysavy, her mother Marie Berry, stepfather Nick Berry, sister Laura Kirchner and nephews, David and Michael Stark. Kathy will also be truly missed by her devoted dog and friend Daisy.
Special thanks to Kathy's Hospice team, and all of her friends and visitors.
There will be a private service for family, and a "Celebration of her Life" at a later date.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kathleen Peterson
Lukas Rysavy
November 1, 2021
I really miss her
Steve Klemz
June 12, 2015
She always had a great smile and good sense of humor. I'm sure she will be missed by her family but will once again meet in a much better place.
See you in heaven Kathy.
John Kirchner
June 11, 2015
Dear family, I will always hold dear my memories of Kathy and what a wonderful person she was. I hope that her cherished memory will be a source of pride and comfort to you.
Brenda, Robert, Kathryn & Sophia Remiker
June 8, 2015
Dick and family, you have our most sincere condolences. We only met Kathy once, but she was a wonderful caring person. You have our deepest sympathy during this time.
Vince & Cindy Anderson
June 8, 2015
Dear Dick,
My sister Cathy (Pederson/Walker)saw the obituary and realized that you had lost your beloved wife, Kathy. We remember her from 40 years ago, just as all are saying - as beautiful, sweet and tender hearted - especially when you broke your ankle while racing in moto-cross (with our Dad- Walt Pederson/Kawasaki St. Cloud). She cried and needed assurance that you were going to be ok. And then our lives took their separate paths, but it's a memory for us that has always remained. We are so very sorry for your great loss. May your precious memories of your long marriage carry you in the days ahead. God be with you and your family.
Vince and Cindy (Pederson) Anderson
Judy Cook
June 7, 2015
My sincere condolences to Kathy's family - may your memories sustain you. I enjoyed seeing Kathy at our high school reunions & "mini" reunions - our last conversation was so nice and I treasure that memory. A lovely soul.
Dennis and Kaye Bresnahan
June 7, 2015
Dear Nick, Marie and family members, WE only met Kathy once, but feel we know your family by everything you've shared with us through the years. She truly sounds like a very special person. It is now time to celebrate her life. She left so many wonderful memories-
Rod Walker
June 6, 2015
She always had a smile for everyone , and a kind word . We just lost a very sweet angel who loved her family and friends .
Rod Walker
June 6, 2015
Your joy in life always brought a cheery atmosphere where ever you would go , the earth truly lost an angel with your passing , God les you and all your family
Randy Dishaw
June 6, 2015
I've never forgotten her smile, authentic is how it struck me...to her dear family I say truly sorry for this loss...sending you my prayers during this time...wishing I could send more
Greg Knutsen
June 6, 2015
Dear Dick and family, life is a precious commodity to be held for the time allotted by our creator. Your blessed wife and mother served her time in a most blessed way. Gail and I wish you all the best during your time of sorrow.
Donna Broussard
June 6, 2015
Dear Marie and Nick ,So sorry about Kathy,but what a bright and beautiful star heaven has now.
Donna Broussard
June 6, 2015
So sorry about Kathy, What a bright and beautiful star heaven has now.
Barry Carlin
June 6, 2015
So sorry for your loss... Your family will be in my prayers.
Donnie & Kyle Burdick
June 6, 2015
Our deepest sympathy go out to you, Marie & Nick, and your family. You will all be in our thoughts and prayers. God bless you.
Sharon Jackson
June 6, 2015
Dearest Marie, Nick, Laura and Family...
My heart is broken for all of you at this trying time...I have continually prayed for Kathy for the last 8 years and hoped that a miricle here would take place, BUT, the Lord had different plans for this beautiful, loving woman...she is now in her heavenly garden doing what she loved to do...Much Love and Prayers are still coming your way...
Don and Roxie Downie
June 6, 2015
Dear Marie, Nick and Family Members, we are so sorry to hear of Kathy's passing. Please know you are all in our prayers and thoughts during this difficult time. May the truly wonderful memories you have of Kathy keep you strong in the coming days until you meet again.
Tracy C
June 6, 2015
I only met Kathy a few times, but it was completely evident that she was a very kind, loving, and beautiful woman. Kathy's sister, Laura, is a dear friend of mine and has those same qualities. For the years I've known Laura, she's had nothing but wonderful things to say/share about Kathy. I know how much you'll miss Kathy, Laura, and how much she will be missed, but also know that you will be reunited one day and live in the presence if Christ for eternity. To all of Kathy's family.. I'll be praying for your hearts as you grieve Kathy's passing, asking that God will bring you a peace and comfort that only He can provide. You are loved...
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