Steven Carl Peterson

1948 - 2021

Steven Carl Peterson
February 19, 1948 – March 28, 2021
DeFuniak Springs, Florida – Steven Carl Peterson, 73 of DeFuniak Springs, FL (formerly of Shalimar, FL) passed away on Palm Sunday, March 28, 2021. Steve was born on February 19, 1948 in St. Joseph, MO as the first child to Carl & Dietta Peterson. He grew up with three siblings: Karen, Stanley (Deceased) and Scott. As a youth, Steve loved playing football, racing anything with a motor, and working at his parents' marina. He graduated from Lafayette High School in 1966 and began his career in the food & beverage industry. For many years, Steve worked at Quaker Oats, Pabst Blue Ribbon Brewery and finally, Nabisco Bakery in Atlanta, GA. In 2001, Steve 'retired' from Nabisco to follow his dream as the owner/operator of Shalimar Yacht Basin in Shalimar, FL. He and his wife, Paulette, sold the marina in 2017 and relocated to DeFuniak Springs, FL where Steve was finally enjoying a real retirement with his beloved dachshunds, Norma & Tootsie, never too far from his side.
Throughout his life, 'Papa' Steve was known for a variety of roles - a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, cousin, brother, mentor & friend. He was the life of every party; always making sure that his family & friends were having the best time. The 'Captain of Fun', Steve was the best storyteller and could always make you laugh with a silly video or funny voicemail to brighten your day.
Steve is survived by his wife Paulette Peterson, his children Michelle Harley (Craig) of Winston, GA; Wendie Hill (Keith) of Raleigh, NC; Jeffery Peterson (Melody) of Heflin, AL, nine grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.
Youth development was a passion of Steve's and he gladly offered his marina building and resources to non-profit organizations for fundraising. For many years he partnered with the American Business Women's Association Boat Poker Run (putting in long hours himself) to provide funding for youth scholarships. He would always say "It's for the Kids!"
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in memory of Steve Peterson to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast at 923 Denton Blvd, Fort Walton Beach, FL, 32547. A 'Celebration of Life' for family & friends will be held at a later date.
Death takes the body. God takes the soul. Our mind holds the memories. Our heart keeps the love. Our faith lets us know we will meet again.