Michael Leon Peterson

Michael Leon Peterson, 77, departed this world peacefully on August 21, 2025, in Orem, Utah. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather whose greatest joy was found in his family. His quiet sacrifices, steady love, and unwavering devotion left a legacy far deeper than words can express.
Michael was born on September 22, 1947, in Payson, Utah, to Andrew Leon Peterson and Merle Joyce Stone. He was raised in Provo, Utah where he grew up with his younger sister Sherri and younger brother Todd. Michael also graduated from Provo High School.
He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy Reserves during the Vietnam War. His service reflected his strength, loyalty, and courage - qualities that also defined the way he cared for his family. Though he rarely spoke of his war experiences, his resilience, and love of freedom were marked by the sacrifice he made in answering the call to serve. His dedication to both his country and his family will always be remembered with gratitude and pride.
Michael's life was profoundly enriched by a beautiful union with Elaine Hodson, whom he married on February 13, 1982. Michael and Elaine were sealed, for time and all eternity, in the Salt Lake LDS Temple on March 5, 2004.
He had a lifelong passion for cars, whether he was under the hood or behind the wheel. He loved the challenge of fixing them, the thrill of racing (especially with his son, Jeff), and the friendships he built along the way. Another of his greatest joys was spending time on the water with a fly rod in his hand. Fly fishing was more than just a hobby for him, he found peace, reflection, and a deep sense of self-reflection every time he stepped into the river.
Michael loved his family. He especially loved spending time with his sweet wife. He often spoke about the delicious meals she had prepared for them, how hard they had worked together on projects around the house, and how he loved sitting on the back swing with her to enjoy an evening popsicle. Michael was also very proud of all his children and grandchildren, and he found happiness in spending time with them, hearing about their latest milestones and being a part of their lives.
Michael has joined his loved ones in eternal peace including his parents, and his step-granddaughter Alyson Marie Richardson. He is survived by his wife Elaine Hodson Peterson, sister Sherri Lynn (Larry) Curtis, brother Todd (Kami) Wilkerson, son Jeffery Michael (Wendy) Peterson, daughter Bobbi (Kevin) Kassel, daughter Johanna Tucker, and stepdaughter Melody Ann Watson, along with 12 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren.
A viewing will be held for family and close friends in Orem, Utah, on Thursday, August 28, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the Walker Sanderson Funeral Home, 646 East 800 North.
Interment and graveside service, with military honors, will take place on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Salem City Cemetery, 965 South 140 East, Salem, Utah.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the compassionate staff at Legacy Village of Provo and to his devoted hospice nurse, Desiree, with iCare Home Health Care & Hospice, whose kindness, care, and support brought comfort and dignity to Michael in his final days.
Family Prayer by Tanner Gren, grandson.
Dedication of Grave by Richard Thomas, uncle.
Pallbearers include:
Jeff Peterson, son
Kevin Kassel, son-in-law
Todd Wilkerson, brother
Michael Peterson, grandson
Austin Gren, grandson
Tanner Gren, grandson
Andrew Tucker, grandson
Graeme Gutierrez, grandson-in-law
Honorary Pallbearers include:
Richard Thomas, uncle
Larry Curtis, brother-in-law