Lawrence W. Peterson

Lawrence William Peterson, 93, of Rockford, IL, died at Swedish American Hospital on Sunday, October 12, 2025. He was surrounded by his family and was accompanied on his journey to Heaven by some of his favorite hymns played on the violin.

He was born April 14, 1932, in Cloquet, MN to Carl and Nancy Peterson, the sixth of seven boys. Lawrence graduated in 1950 from Barnum High School and worked for a year at Wood Conversion before joining the Air Force in 1951. He was eventually stationed in Korea where he served his country proudly during the Korean War until he was honorably discharged in 1955. From there, he returned home and enrolled at University of Minnesota-Duluth where he graduated with a degree in Education.

Lawrence married Mary Baymler on June 16, 1962 in Barnum. From there, they moved to Spencer, Iowa where their two daughters, Janice and Teresa, were born. After a few years in Iowa, Lawrence moved his family to Rockford, IL. He taught Industrial Arts and Social Studies in the Rockford Public Schools until his retirement in 1994.

Lawrence’s title changed to “Grandpa” when Erik and Kelly were born. Being their grandpa was one of the most rewarding chapters of his life. He was always so proud of his grandchildren and their accomplishments, no matter how big or small.

Lawrence was known fondly as “Laurie” by his brothers, nieces, and nephews. He was very close with his family and bought property on Park Lake so he would always have a home in Mahtowa.

He was preceded in death by his brothers Wilbur, Chester, Ervin, Roy, Allen, and Rodney.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Mary; daughters Jan Olsen and Teri (Jeff) Macdonald; grandchildren Erik (Megan) Olsen and Kelly (Elliott) Lewis; great-granddaughters Lucia and Stella Olsen.

Funeral services will be held at Salem Lutheran Church, 2702 1st Street, Mahtowa, MN 55707 on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until time of the service. Flower orders may be delivered directly to Salem Lutheran Church between 9:00 and 10:00 a.m. on Thursday.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Mount Salem Cemetery would be appreciated.