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BORN
1928
DIED
2016
Walter Petersen Obituary
Walter C. Petersen, MD passed away in Seattle, Washington on Monday, April 4 2016. He was born in Dallas, Texas on October 3, 1928, the son of George and Josephine Petersen. After living in Nebraska for several years, his family moved to Seattle. Walter graduated from Roosevelt High School. Following service in the US Army, he entered the University of Washington. He graduated in 1951 and then entered UW Medical school. After Medical school, he served his internship in Brooklyn, NY and then his residency in ophthalmology at The Wilmer Institute of Johns Hopkins Hospital.
Walter returned to Seattle and practiced ophthalmology for 48 years. He was a member of several medical organizations, local and national. During his active practice years, he was awarded the Honor Award from the American Academy of Ophthalmology for 15 years of service in education. He served as president of the Washington Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons, the American Eye Study Club and the Seattle Tennis club. He was chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology at Swedish hospital for Six years. For several years, he served as chairman of the Bishop Foundation, dedicated to eye research.
Walter is predeceased by his brother Warren. He is survived by his wife, Sheila, his children James, Michael and Katherine, step children Kirk and Maren (Brandon) and his grandchildren Emma, Brody and Andrew.
At his request there will be no services. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity or the Bishop foundation, c/o Bank of America Trust Department.
Please sign Walter's online Guestbook at www.Legacy.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Walter Petersen
Sponsored by The Family.
Lilette Player
May 22, 2016
My brother and I always called him "Uncle Walt", as he was good friends with my Mom and especially my Uncle Mac (Mackenzie Smith)
I have fond memories from my youth of spending time with his children, and later of going to his office for my own eyes and my Mother's eyes. What a wonderful person!
--Lilette Mahon Player
Bob Kalina
April 17, 2016
Walt already was a legend when I arrived at UW. Later we served UW together through the Bishop Foundation. Walt was a really good doctor and a really good person. He is missed.
Robert M. Hegstrom
April 13, 2016
Walt was a wonderful person, talented in
all respects. He is greatly missed.
Robert and Donna Hegstrom
Agnes Huang
April 12, 2016
Walt and I met when I purchased his ophthalmic practice in 2005. He was one of the most charismatic, kindest, and thoughtful mentor that I have every had. I will miss his wry wit and laugh as well as his crazy Sun Valley ski stories. My deepest sympathies go to Sheila and his family.
Richard Mills MD MPH
April 10, 2016
Walt was a good friend and mentor from the time I was a UW resident back in 1970. I was honored to serve with him on the Board of the Bishop Foundation for several years in the '90s. He was a consistent champion of ophthalmic research and education. We will all miss him.
April 10, 2016
I knew Walt since I worked with him in 1980 and 1981 at the Seattle Eye Clinic. He was a great surgeon and teacher, and will be missed by all of us. The recommendation to donate to the Bishop Foundation is a good one. My sincere condolences to Sheila and all his children and grandchildren.
Sincerely, Richard Munsen MD
Theresa Lavallee
April 10, 2016
Knew Dr. Petersen in Wilmer Institute long ago. Was newly married and working in the lab. He was kind, and friendly and even suggested I buy my husband , a Psych. resident, a rod for fly fishing! I did. Was a patient a few times when we came to live in Seattle. Please accept our condolences. Sincerely. John and Theresa Lavallee
Doyle and Shirley Perkins
April 10, 2016
Thank you for being a great friend and physician. We will miss you.
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