Loretta M Whiting

Loretta M. (Peterson) Whiting

January 15, 1928 - January 23, 2024

Loretta M. Whiting lived for 96 wonderful years.

Daughter of William and Adelaide (Gehl) Peterson, she grew up in Minneapolis where she met Carlton, her beloved husband of 74 years. Early in their marriage they moved to Southern California and settled in San Diego for nearly 70 years where they enjoyed many life-long friendships. In 2021, they moved to Eugene, Oregon.

Loretta will be deeply missed by her two daughters and their spouses: Sherie (Paul) Rohal and Debra (Robert) Alexander. She is also survived by two grandchildren: David (Laura) Greer and Katelyn (Kevin) Kelley as well as two great-grandchildren: Walter Greer and Eliza Kelley. She dearly loved her family-they were the joy of her life.

Loretta, also known by many as "Rex," worked at the University of Minnesota and continued in a variety of office jobs in California after her children had grown. She remained a Vikings fan, an avid reader, loved traveling, dark chocolate, music, the theatre, Skipbo, decorating for Christmas, concerts, the autumn leaves, shopping for a bargain, interior design, and most of all having fun with her family.

Loretta held a deep, personal faith, characterized by optimism and unconditional love and acceptance for all. She carried a gentle, gracious sense of empathy for others, always seeing the good in everyone. She loved to laugh and had a way of seeing humor in almost everything.

As one of seven children, she also had a big heart for those in need. She remained grateful for the warm socks and assistance her family received from The Salvation Army when she was a young girl. With gratitude she supported them throughout her life.

She is survived by sister Jane Lundby, as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents and five siblings, Carole Bachen, Gladys Peterson, Donald Peterson, Lavern Roseth, and Jerry Peterson.

A private family gathering was held in Eugene, Oregon, celebrating Loretta with chocolate cake and root beer floats. Interment will take place at a later date at Oakwood Cemetery in Rochester, Minnesota. Arrangements made by Andreason's Funeral Home in Springfield, Oregon.

The family thanks all the staff at Marquis Memory Care and Brighton Hospice for their kindness and loving care. They ask that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a charity of choice or to The Salvation Army in honor of Loretta.

To live in our hearts is not to die, but to be honored and celebrated forever...