Peter O. Hugdahl

1943 - 2025

Peter O. Hugdahl

April 5, 1943 - June 16, 2025

Lt. Col. Peter O. Hugdahl, USAF (Ret.), passed away on June 16, 2025, at the age of 82. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and respected leader, Peter's life was defined by integrity, service, and an unwavering love for his family.

Born on April 5, 1943, in Rice Lake, Wisconsin, Peter grew up with a deep passion for sports-especially football, basketball and baseball. At Rice Lake High School, he was named First Team All-State in basketball by the Associated Press. A standout member of the legendary 1961 varsity basketball team, he was later honored with induction into the Rice Lake Sports Hall of Fame in 2001.

Peter went on to attend the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, where he continued to excel athletically, playing basketball. He graduated in 1967 and later received his masters from Ball State University. He began a career in the U.S. Air Force, eventually retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. While attending the Academy, he met the love of his life at a basketball game-the beginning of a 58-year marriage marked by deep love, friendship, and partnership.

After his military retirement, Peter began a successful second career at USAA, where he worked for nearly 20 years and retired as Assistant Vice President Head of Security, a role that reflected his integrity and dedication to protecting others.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Minda and Victor Hugdahl; and his siblings, Wally, Don, Jim, Jack, and Marilyn Hugdahl.

Peter is survived by his beloved wife, Pauline Hugdahl; his son, Jeffrey Hugdahl and wife Karen; his daughter, Tracy Spruill and husband Jimmy; and his grandchildren, Taylor Hugdahl, Zachary Hugdahl, and Braden Spruill. He is also survived by his brother, Tom Hugdahl.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Porter Loring Mortuary North, located at 2102 North Loop 1604 East. A reception will follow from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Immediately following the reception, inurnment with full military honors will take place at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery at 2:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.