Raynor LeDean "Pete" Peterson

Raynor LeDean (Pete) Peterson of Newcastle, NE died peacefully, surrounded by his family on Friday January 26, 2024, at Unity Point Health in Sioux City, IA. 

Visitation will be held Tuesday January 30th at Salem Lutheran Church with family available from 5:00- 7:00 p.m., a prayer service will be held at 6:30 p.m. The Funeral will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday January 31st at the Church, burial after the service at Salem Lutheran Cemetery in Ponca, NE. Please join the family back at the Church for coffee and fellowship. 

Pete was born on January 7, 1936, in Sioux City, IA to Harry & lone (Ferdig) Peterson. He was raised on the farm in Luton and attended Luton High School where he graduated in 1954 in a class of 2 students. 

After graduating high school, Pete joined the United States Navy where he spent time on the USS Aircraft Carrier Intrepid as a boilerman. After returning home Pete was a Naval Recruiter for many years in Sioux City, IA. 

Pete met his wife Judith C. Ideker in the Summer of 1960, and they were married December 27, 1960. That date held a special place in Pete's heart as it was the anniversary of his parents. Daughter Jane continued the tradition as she was also married on Dec. 27th. They were seldom apart during the next 61 years. Pete and Judy raised their six children on their farm in Newcastle, NE. 

Pete enjoyed being outdoors in all types of weather, he loved all his farm animals. In his earlier years Pete was a member of the Newcastle Saddle Club and looked forward to joining in on local trail rides. Pete was a proud member of the American Legion in Newcastle, NE. All meetings and events were noted on his calendar.  He was a member of Salem Lutheran Church in Ponca, NE.

Pete is survived by his children: Laura (Gary) Troth of Sioux City, IA, Jim (Kim) Peterson of Ponca, NE, Jane (Marvin) Keitges of Jackson, NE, David (Kathy) Peterson of Grand Junction, CO, Roger (Connie) Peterson of Ponca, NE and Jeff (Barb) Peterson of McCook Lake, SD. His sister Donna McNear of Newcastle, NE, 16 grandchildren & 31 great grandchildren and many cherished nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded by his wife Judy, his parents, Father & Mother-in-law Fremont & Helen Ideker, Brother & Sister-in-law Paul & Margaret Cramer, Brother-in-law Bill McNear and his Great Grandson Ridge Peterson. 

Those he left behind are honored to have shared his life.