Paul Clifford Peterson

Paul Clifford Peterson, 89, peacefully entered eternal glory on April 2, 2024.

Paul was the youngest of three boys born to Grant and Alfhild Peterson on November 26, 1934 in Braddock, ND. Paul graduated from Braddock High School in North Dakota in 1952. From there he went to Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, MN where he earned his degree in Music Education in 1956 and met the love of his life, Martha Telleen. They were married in Gowrie, IA on June 1, 1957.

After college, Paul served in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1959 in Fort Knox, KY where Paul and Martha welcomed their son, Brett Thomas in 1959. While in the Army, Paul was assigned to Special Services. This included directing choirs in the post chapels, plus a 75-voice male chorus that sang at Special Events. Once out of the military, Paul went to Colorado State University and received a Masters Degree in Counseling and Administration. Much of his teaching and counseling career was at Del Campo High School in Fair Oaks, CA (greater Sacramento area). He touched many lives through his counseling and music careers.

Music was one of the greatest parts of Paul's life. Wherever he lived, he directed church choirs, taking some on tours that once included the International Church Music Festival in England and Switzerland. After retirement, he sang in the church choir, River City Chorale, Country Club Aires Men's Chorus, and Regency Singers.

Paul's faith was very important to him, evident in all aspects of his life. A close second was his love for his family. An intense awareness and sensitivity, he was someone who would cry, pray, and empathize with you. His father-son relationship with Brett was one to be admired. In addition to sharing an amazing sense of humor, they could also be found in huge competition over a cribbage board. He was the absolute best Far Far to his granddaughters, playing crazy games, accompanying their school choir, and taking them on lunch dates. As they grew older, he transitioned to a mentor and teacher, passing along on his knowledge of music and counseling. A beloved husband, dad, and Far Far, he treasured all the time he could be with family. He was the epitome of a true gentleman who adored and cherished his loving wife, Martha. Together they traveled the world, often with dear friends and family. Their favorite way to travel was cruising.

Paul is preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Grant and Edward, and son, Brett. Paul is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Martha, daughter-in-law, Trish Peterson, granddaughters, Erika (Kurt) Kleisner and Anika (Scott) Ratzburg, and many cherished nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in honor of Paul Peterson to Living Hope School Music Program. The following link will direct you to the secure website for donations: https://secure.myvanco.com/YK4Z/campaign/C-13KRE. Please make checks out to "Living Hope Lutheran Church" memo "Peterson Memorial Fund".