Dave Peterson

Dave Alan Peterson passed away on March 10, 2025 in Portland Oregon of natural causes. Dave was 66 years old. He was born on January 23, 1959 in Davenport, Iowa.
As a child he is remembered for his curly blond hair and dare-devil personality. Dave graduated from West Aurora High School in Aurora, Illinois in 1977. Dave eventually graduated from the University of Illinois and joined the military for 3 years, during which he spent time in Germany. After his honorable discharge, he settled in Portland, Oregon for the rest of his life. He loved to watch sports and listen to jazz.
In his later years, Dave found great meaning through the Alcoholics Anonymous organization where he found community and hope. Dave is remembered for his sense of humor, kindness and unique experience of life which included his appreciation of the "great northwest", and staying connected to people. Dave had an exceptional drive to live his life his own way. He reminds us of the value of truly listening to one another, as he found great comfort in listening to people at his AA meetings and in "understanding" their messages. He also loved sharing his thoughts and values with others. Dave became quite the storyteller, sometimes adding that ironic twist of humor, a tribute to his Scandinavian heritage which he loved so much, and true to the funny signs which he posted on his wall "Parking for Swedes and Norwegians Only".
Dave is survived by immediate family members, including his mother, Donna Peterson; brothers: Jeff (Suzanne), Brad, Scott (Amy); and sisters: Linda (George Walter), Kay (Steve Klauer), Julie, Joanna and numerous nieces and nephews. Dave's father was Harvey Peterson who passed away in December, 2005.
A private memorial will be held at Sugar Grove Cemetery on July 11, 2025.
Any donations should be directed to Alcoholics Anonymous.