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Randal Peterson Obituary
PEORIA - Randy Peterson, 56, formerly of Peoria, passed away on Saturday, October 3, 2020, at his home in Windsor, Colorado, surrounded by his family.
Randy was born on March 16, 1964, in Brookings, South Dakota, to LaVonne (Olson) and Adolph Peterson. He married Susan (Fransen) in June of 1991. They raised three daughters, Danielle (Kester), Kelly and Sydney. He has three older siblings, Jan Selken of Elkton, SD, Reid Peterson of Metamora, IL, and Mari Linden of Dunlap, IL.
He earned his Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering at South Dakota State University (1986) and his MBA at Bradley University (1993). He worked 30 years at Caterpillar, Inc. and two years at Woodward, Inc. in Fort Collins, CO. Randy spent his career in various engineering and leadership roles, developing advanced technology. He was a life-long learner of the sciences, both on the job and in his personal time. He was awarded 19 patents and was the recipient of numerous technical and sustainability awards. He was a true innovator, mentor, positive thinker and finisher.
In his free time, Randy continuously perfected the craft of woodworking. He designed and built numerous heirloom furniture pieces for the family home. He was committed to problem solving and efficiency in all aspects of his life; he could fix anything. Family was the center of life for Randy. Together they traveled the world, went boating and skiing in different locations yearly, and made extraordinary memories. Even with adversity, his can-do attitude and zest for life did not waver.
A memorial service will be held at Northminster Presbyterian Church, 10720 Knoxville Ave, Peoria, IL, on October 24, with COVID-19 precautions strictly enforced. The open visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. and the invitation-only service will be at 11:30 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the South Dakota State University Scholarships for Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering or University of Colorado (CU) Anschutz Lung Cancer Research Fund.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Randal Peterson
John Tisch
October 24, 2020
Susie, Danny, Kelley, Sydney -
I loved Pete. Strong, honest, high Integrity, loving and FUN.
I am a better person for having known him and all of you. I am SO grateful for our last visit. The fact that I ended up Riding out with Reid was no coincidence. The fact that Mike and Sierra were there too was a blessing as well.
I will bring a couple of momentous with me today. If you want them, they are yours. One is an “ALP” hunting hat and the other is a picture I kept on my work desk for 28 years. Randy and Mitch walking across a grassy field with a rainbow in the background. Both are from that first trip we took to South Dakota to go hunting.
Love you. Praying for you. Praying for Whole family.
John Tisch
Sarah Gregory & Family
October 21, 2020
Dear Kelly and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss.
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Pernille Gregory
October 21, 2020
Dear Kelly and family,
We are so sorry for your loss.
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Sarah, Pernille, Rick, Christina and Rebecca Gregory
Jason Lechman
October 13, 2020
I had the great pleasure of working with Randy on the Motion Control Technology Center, a hydraulics lab set up in Fort Collins for the aerospace industry. Randy was a highly-respected individual, knowledgeable, and kind. Randy will be missed and my condolences go out to his family. I recall that Randy had 3 daughters that enjoyed volleyball, he spoke of them often.
Lyle Shuey
October 12, 2020
Dear Peterson Family,
We are very sad to hear of Randy's passing. He was taken way too soon. Our sincere prayers and condolences to you during this very difficult time. Me and members of the Czero Inc. team interacted with Randy when he was at Caterpillar and at Woodward. He was just a great individual, very capable and always a pleasure to work with. He was a great professional colleague and will be missed.
Brian Holfelner
October 10, 2020
I am so sorry to hear about Randy. He was taken from this world to soon. He was an awesome person to work with and for; always upbeat and encouraging and so knowledgeable but still willing and wanting to learn from others. I cherish the fond memories of the 3+ years I spent with all of you in Japan. Of the sightseeing trips we all took together and of the many cookouts, dinners, and parties we shared. Randy will be truly missed.
Jim Halloran
October 9, 2020
I too worked with Randy on the 336 project - a brilliant mind who never had an issue to "dumb it down" for people like me who weren't at his level. But that's not what defined him - it was family. On our many calls he would tell me how jazzed he was for an upcoming ski trip or how great the boating trip was with his family...or after flying to CA for late afternoon meetings he was insistent on joining me for my son's little league game - just a great guy!
I know God has welcomed you early - there must be a project up there that needs your attention - and what is our loss is Heaven's gain. I also know you are keeping an eye on all of us - as evidenced by that field goal going through the uprights last night - Bear Down my brotha....you will be missed my friend!
JB King
October 8, 2020
I had the pleasure of working for Randy at Caterpillar and was always amazed by his vast knowledge. I also traveled with him to his parents home and hunted. A truly remarkable guy. I am sorry for your loss.
Aleem Junaidi
October 8, 2020
Unbelievable. Something is not right. He was too young to leave his loved ones. He didn't deserve to die. He struggled, persevered, and accomplished so much in his life, now was the time for him to reflect and share his wisdom with his loved ones. I feel truly sorry for his loved ones for such a great loss.
I was part of the Randy's team during 336EH Hybrid Excavator Launch at Caterpillar. He had all the characteristics of an accomplished and empathetic leader.
He will be missed.
Jody howard
October 7, 2020
My deepest condolences to the Peterson family. I worked with Randy at Caterpillar for many years. He was a great colleague and genuinely kind person. I am truly sorry for your loss.
John Crowley
October 6, 2020
Dear Peterson family:
I had the distinct privilege of working with Randy at Caterpillar. He was incredibly smart and focused, and I saw those fine attributes on display during our launch of the 336 Hybrid. I loved his passion for the product, and I really loved his leadership in recognizing all the people who contributed to Hybrid’s success.
Please know he will be missed by me and many colleagues at Caterpillar. You will all be in my prayers.
Sincerely,
John Crowley
Kent Risch
October 6, 2020
Reid, Jan and Mari I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers are for you as you go through this time. God bless my friends!
Marcy Campbell
October 6, 2020
Heartfelt sympathies are being sent to the family during this difficult time. Having that strong family bond will allow you to support one another when days get tough. Feel the grief. Remember the love. Share the memories. Pray for peace.
Shane McKeown
October 6, 2020
To the family of Randy, please know thoughts and prayers are with you from many places. Jan, Ried and Mari...sending a big hug to each of you. Shane
Mary a anderson
October 6, 2020
I did not know Randy or Mari well but did know Jan, and Reid graduated with me and the others of the EHS Class of 1973. We send our sincere condolences on the family’s loss. Mary (Alberts) and Paul Anderson
Laura & David Bremmer
October 6, 2020
Such a great loss my deepest sympathies to Susan and the girls, sending our closing prayers to you all ♥
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