LeRoy M. Peterson

LeRoy Marvin Peterson, age 85, passed away Wednesday, October 9th, 2024, at Viking Manor Nursing Home in Ulen, MN with his children at his side.

LeRoy was born on December 13, 1938, to Ernest and Mamie (Grefsrud) Peterson in the house his grandparents homesteaded south of Hitterdal, MN. He was the eldest of their eight children.

LeRoy was baptized and confirmed at Highland Grove Lutheran Church near Hitterdal, MN. He graduated from Hitterdal High School in 1956 and was the Salutatorian of his class.

LeRoy was drafted into the United States Army serving his country from 1962 to 1964. He was stationed in Fort Ord, California as a communication specialist at the Command Center. He took great pride in his military service and valued the lifelong friendships he made while in California. He told many stories of his time in the army.

LeRoy married his high school sweetheart, Ardith Nodsle, on May 25th, 1963, at Eksjo Lutheran Church, Lake Park, MN. Together, they purchased the family farm where they milked cows and farmed side by side for over 40 years. They were honored with the Clay County Farmer of the year award in 2001. He was proud of his Century Farm that is now over 120 years old.

Here they raised three children: Gregory, Gary, and Jeralyn which were their pride and joy...until the grandchildren arrived! They were blessed with six grandchildren and six great grandchildren. LeRoy enjoyed going to all their school activities, especially all the sporting events.

LeRoy was an active member of Highland Grove Lutheran Church and in 2008 joined Salem Lutheran Church in Hitterdal, MN. Throughout the years LeRoy was active on church council, the Ulen-Hitterdal School Board, Hitterdal Elevator Board, American Legion Post #13, and the Hitterdal Lions Club. 

Anyone who knew LeRoy also knew he loved to tell stories, reminisce about the past, and tell a funny joke or two.

His loving smile and big heart will be missed by all who knew him. LeRoy is survived by his children; Gregory Peterson (Hitterdal, MN), Gary (Melissa) Peterson (Lake Park, MN), and Jeralyn Peterson (Hitterdal, MN); six grandchildren, Troy (Amelia), Tyra (DeVante Bell), Trey, Haidyn, Karsyn, and Rylan Peterson; and six great-grandchildren. Siblings, Morris Peterson, Eunice Fitzpatrick, Sharon (Rick) Julian, Beverly (Lee) Peterson, Beatrice Utke, Sandi (Keith) Krueger along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his cherished wife Ardith, his parents, an infant son, daughters Julie and Jayne; brother Darrel Peterson; and several beloved members of his extended family.

Visitation: Sunday, October 13, 2024, from 5-6:30 PM with a prayer service at 6:30 at Salem Lutheran Church, Hitterdal, MN. Funeral service: Monday, October 14, 2024, at 11:00 AM at the Church. Interment: Highland Grove Cemetery. The funeral service will be livestreamed on Salem Lutheran’s Facebook page for those who cannot attend.