Robert John Petersen

Robert (Bob) Petersen passed away early on March 27th, 2025 at the age of 83, surrounded by his family.

Bob was born in Ogden, Utah, to the loving parents of Emery G. and Dorothy Petersen. Bob attended Ogden High School where he played football, created lifelong friends and fond memories often referenced throughout his life.

Bob’s life changed at an early age with the passing of his sweet mother when he was just 18. He was soon called to serve an LDS mission in Scotland, UK. He has always been a devoted member of the church and loved the gospel. Bob attended Weber State College, graduating in mathematics and physics.

Bob met his true love, Nedra Buttars, on a blind date December 31st, 1964. They were married on February 19th, 1965, in the Salt Lake City LDS Temple. Their courtship, lasting mere weeks, was “love at first sight.” They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary a few short weeks ago.

Bob’s life revolved around his children and grandchildren. He and Nedra were fixtures at nearly every event in their lives. His grandchildren were always referred to as “his kids” and was ever consistent in his question of “What are my kids up to?”

Bob’s career began at IBM, and in 1977, Bob and Nedra established a successful family commercial construction business. Like his father, Bob had a strong work ethic. There was rarely a day, or an hour spent when he was not working. His “second job” was the family farm. Bob could be found out in the fields carrying a five-gallon bucket full of sprinkler parts and had a special talent for leaving glue and primer on nearly everything he touched.

Bob had a love of horses and outdoors that was second only to his family. Whether he was steer wrestling, team roping with his son, or on mounted hunting trips, his devoted passion only provided excuses to Nedra for needing to buy more horses. Bob loved everything about a good horse.

He was a man of few words, but full of action; actions of generosity, honor, and love. He was the best husband, father, and grandfather and his absence will be forever felt.

Bob is survived by his wife, Nedra, two children, Angela (Scott) Kempema and Matthew (Nicole) Petersen, along with five grandchildren: Jakob, Jonah and Micah Kempema and Kendell and Cache Petersen, three siblings; sister, Dianne (Lynn) Barnett, and brothers, David (Kari) Petersen and Dennis Petersen.

The celebration of Bob’s life will be held on Tuesday April 8, 2025 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 2455 Valley View Drive (the rock church), Layton, Utah.

Arrangements entrusted to Lindquist’s Layton Mortuary, 1867 N. Fairfield Rd., Layton, Utah.