Linda Lee Petersen

Linda Lee Petersen

Linda Lee Petersen, of Gurnee, IL, lived a life grounded in animals, family, and doing things her own way—usually with a broom or shovel in her hand. She wasn’t one to make a fuss, but she showed up for the people she loved in reliable ways. Her presence was her promise.

Born to William and Freeda Starovich, Linda was the beloved wife of Brad Petersen; loving mom of Jenny Sweeney, Willie (Morgan) Petersen, Jeff (Sonya) Petersen and Neil (Joyce) Petersen; and proud grandma to Ethan, Spencer, Alex, Jake, Tripp, Declan, Colton, Loretta, Ruby and Claire.

She was a devoted sister to Susan (Roman) Keating, Pam (Joe) Atkinson, and Mike (Sue) Starovich, and Auntie Linda to Peter Ryback, Josh (Lindsay) Atkinson, Carissa (Mark) Lund, Eric Atkinson, Lee Starovich, Roman (Margaret) Keating, and Megan Starovich.

Linda was raised with the kind of creativity and know-how that comes from working the land and caring for animals—the kind that leaves your hands dirty and your heart full. Over the years, her farm became a haven for dogs, cats, goats, horses, donkeys, chickens, ferrets, and ducks—all of them rescues—each one finding safety, kindness, and a place to belong. She extended that same care beyond her own land, giving her time generously to causes close to her heart, including Fat Cat Rescue and Sparrow’s Nest, always finding quiet ways to help.

She lived simply and naturally, caring for the earth the way she cared for everything else—with quiet devotion and willing hands. She loved giving old things new life, whether it was a broken chair or a homeless cat.

She was stubborn in the best way, tough as nails when she had to be, and never backed down from hard work. Whether she was mucking a stall, coaxing life out of her garden, or bottle-feeding a newborn goat in the middle of the night, Linda worked without fanfare but with total commitment. Her love was written in actions, day after day, year after year. She taught us how to care deeply, live simply, and give love in quiet ways. She leaves behind a family—both human and animal—who will miss her fiercely, and a home where her spirit will always be felt in every tree, trail, and tail.

She was one in a million to everyone and to every life she touched.

In her honor, please rescue a stray, grow something from seed, or let the weeds win once in a while. Donations may also be made to Fat Cat Rescue. A celebration of Linda’s life will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Burnett-Dane Funeral Home in Libertyville. For info: 847-362-3009 or share a memory at www.burnettdane.com.