Michael F. Petersen

Michael "Mike" Petersen, age 70, died at Benedictine Skilled Nursing Facility in Owatonna on Sunday, September 14, 2025.

A celebration of life will be held at the Boldt Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Faribault, on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 1 to 4 p.m.

Mike was born to Louie and Mary (O'Malley) Petersen in Benson, Minnesota. He was a graduate of Benson High School Class of 1973 and later moved to Minneapolis, where he attended the University of Minnesota. Mike was a skilled craftsman and woodworker. He spent most of his career as a fabricator at the Science Museum of Minnesota, where he built many amazing exhibits that he subsequently took on tour to other museums across the country. He was also a self-taught musician who played the keyboard and harmonica and enjoyed jam sessions with other talented artists and friends. He always downplayed his musical abilities, calling himself a "musical hack".

Mike is survived by his son, Gabe; sisters, Sandy (Joe) Pothen and Rose Anne Petersen; brother, Steve (Rosemary) Petersen; sister-in-law, Kathy Petersen; mother of his son, Jean Hartelt; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Jack and Annie O'Malley and Ludwig and Margrathe Petersen; parents, Louie and Mary Petersen; brother, Tom Petersen; niece, Megan Pothen Graham; many aunts, uncles and friends.

A special thank you to the Allina Hospice, Owatonna Division. They are amazing.

In place of flowers, a donation may be made to Allina Hospice in memory of Michael.

Visit www.boldtfuneralhome.com for more information and the guestbook.