Patricia Peterson

In Memoriam:

On this anniversary we lovingly remember a wonderful daughter, sister, cousin, friend, wife, mother, aunt, godmother, teacher, athlete and animal lover.

We sadly memorialize her, following a peaceful but sudden death at her home a year ago. Tina "Teedee" spent her childhood in Omaha and Plattsmouth, then was a longtime resident of South Sioux City, NE, before moving to Florida.

Teedee was born minutes before her twin brother Paul, making them the fourth and fifth children of Herb and Joey (Polito) Elworth. The family eventually grew to eleven siblings whose lives were filled by happy, rambunctious play with each other and friends from other large families who lived nearby.

Teedee started her education at Christ the King and St. Robert's parish schools in Omaha, then graduated from Plattsmouth High School in 1977. She was an accomplished student, had a particular talent for games, and excelled as an athlete across numerous sports and cheerleading. She earned a bachelors degree from Kearney State College and began her teaching career in 1981.

During her college years, Teedee met fellow student Kevin Peterson. They were married in 1983. They lived in South Sioux City for over three decades while raising a family of four children. Teedee continued teaching and especially loved using playful methods to encourage students, who always enjoyed her special energy level. Their first daughter Tricia was born in 1987, followed by her sister Christine in 1991, then brothers Joseph in 1992 and Jack in 1993. Teedee also worked for the Sioux City YMCA and later for Cardinal Farm greenhouse. The family hosted Musketeers hockey players for several seasons.

In retirement, she moved to West Bradenton, FL, where she enjoyed happy years, walking on the beach with her pups, meeting new friends, hosting visits from longtime friends, and traveling to spend time with her children, grandchildren and siblings across the country.

Teedee was predeceased by her husband Kevin. She was also preceded in death by her twin brother, her parents, niece Mary Margaret, mother-in-law Glendina Peterson-Berry and eldest sister Christine Safranek.

She is survived by two grandchildren, Gregory and Sydney, their parents Tricia and her husband Greg Barry (VA), Christine (TX), Joseph Paul (IL) and Jack (IA). Eight siblings, numerous sisters- and brothers-in-law. Many nieces and nephews and their children, who she showered with great love, also survive Teedee, mourn her sudden loss and miss her dearly.

Teedee was laid to rest in September alongside Kevin in Memorial Park Cemetery, Sioux City, Iowa.