Inez Elaine Peterson

1931 - 2025

Inez Elaine (Wilder) Peterson

October 12, 1931 - July 24, 2025

Modesto, California - Inez Elaine Peterson, a lifelong resident of Modesto, California, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025, at the age of 93. Born in Modesto on October 12, 1931, to Charles Chester Wilder and Gladys Ruth Wilder, Inez lived her entire life in the community she dearly loved.

She was married for 59 years to the love of her life, Richard H. Peterson, and together they raised a family rooted in love, creativity, and faith. Inez was a devoted homemaker, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose legacy continues through her children: Marian Buzbee (Buz) of Carlshad, Brad Peterson (Shelly) of Modesto, and Betsy Peterson of Modesto; her grandchildren: Tim Buzbee, Nathan Buzbee, Chris Buzbee, Ben Peterson, Nicholas Peterson, Bradley Peterson, Lee Hammons, Annie Tello, and Ray Hammons; 19 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

She is also survived by her brother, Fred Wilder (Visalia) and sister Ellen Perry (W Sacramento), and was preceded in death by her sisters Joanna Hughes (Santa Cruz), and Florence Brooks (Van Nuys).

A gifted artist, Inez found great joy in painting, sculpting, photography, and traveling. She was an active member of the Central California Art League for many years, where her artistic talents and generous spirit inspired many. Her faith in Jesus and her service to her church were central to her life, as were her deep connections with family and friends. She was a proud member of many churches through her life, Church of the Brethren, Church in the Park, First Baptist Church, Prescott Bible and Calvary Chapel were all places she honored her faith and shared her love of Christ with others.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Golden Age and its dedicated workers, as well as Community Hospice, for their compassionate care during Inez's final years.

A burial will take place at Lakewood Memorial Park on August 23rd at 11:00 AM, followed by a Celebration of Life luncheon at Papapollini Mediterranean Bistro, 2501 McHenry Avenue, Modesto.

In honor of Inez's life and love, donations may be made to Community Hospice.

Inez was an amazing woman. Many benefited from and enjoyed her creativity, her stories, her faith, and her unwavering love. Her ability to make beautiful things from her hands and heart will be passed down for generations to come and never forgotten.