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Michael Peterson Obituary
Michael J. Peterson
GOLD CANYON, AZ - Mike Peterson passed away on Thursday, July 18, 2024 after a brief battle with cancer. His one and only KJ was by his side. Mike was born in Philip, SD on Feb. 5, 1962 to Maurice J. "Pete" Peterson and Marilyn Johnson.
He graduated from Brandon Valley High School and served in the SD National Guard for 12 years.
Mike began working for Pennington County Buildings and Grounds in 1986 and retired as the Director in 2018.
Mike and KJ married on Sept. 21, 2008. KJ was the love of his life and what he loved most was just being Mike and KJ. They enjoyed retirement traveling in their motorhome and spending time with many new friends and lots of dancing in Gold Canyon, AZ.
His heart nearly broke when he lost his only child Marc in the fall of 2012, followed six months later by his brother, Matt. They were his fishing and hunting pals and he missed them dearly every day. They were all especially proud of their MJP and Mike was the last to carry that lineage.
He is survived by his wife, KJ Peterson; his dog, Blue; sisters: Janet (Tom) Schofield and Jamie (Jerry) McKinney; sister-in-law, Dani Peterson; stepsons: Chris (Jessica) Goodart, Neill (Shana) Goodart; grandchildren: Starr, Meadow, Emalyn, Kahne, Nelly, Cayenne and Lylah; and he was "Uncle Mike" to so many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Maurice J. Peterson, Marilyn Bergheim, son, Marcus J. Peterson, brother, Matthew J. Peterson, mother and father-in-law, Dale and Theresa Burke, and his dog, Thunder. "Our lives are better left to chance, I could have missed the pain, but I would of had to miss the dance."
Private services will be held.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Peterson
4 Entries
Mark A Schock
August 19, 2024
It saddens me to hear of Mike´s passing, he was a great person.
KJ my heartfelt condolences go out to you and the entire family.
I have many fond memories of hunting trips with Mike, Matt and the boys along with the many social gatherings involving the whole clan. We had many great times.
I love and miss you all.
Harlan Forster
August 16, 2024
Mike was my uncle, his son Marcus was my cousin. I have many memories with Mike and Marcus but my favorite was when I was in the military and I was stationed at Fort Carson CO. I road home with a guy in my company and he dropped me off at Mikes. I was gonna crash there for the night, and my mom was gonna drive from Pierre and pick me up in the morning. Mike was proud of me being a soldier and bought a bottle of Makers Mark and we took shots and talked about being a soldier. He even gave me his 3 star general coin he had. It was a great time and I paid the price the next day. Mike was a great man, and he will be missed by many! Rest in Peace Uncle Mike
Kahlil Taylor
August 15, 2024
You will be missed Mike.
Pat Geary
August 15, 2024
KJ I´m so sorry to hear of Mikes passing. He was such a great guy to work with and talk to. I lost my husband six years ago and know what a huge loss this is. It´s life changing. I pray peace, strength and amazing memories for you. Hugs my friend
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