James LeRoy Peterson

1930 - 2025

PETERSON, James LeRoy
May 29, 1930 - Nov 5, 2025
James LeRoy Peterson, 95½, of Spokane, Washington, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Jim was born on May 29, 1930, in Wenatchee, Washington, and was raised by his adoptive parents, Christian LeRoy Peterson and Anna Nell. Tragically, Anna Nell died when Jimmy was 8. He grew up on the Clockum, attended Wenatchee Schools, and graduated with highest honors.
Jim and Joyce Beazer were married on September 29, 1948. They shared 50 wonderful years of marriage until Joyce's passing on November 10, 1998. On October 14, 2000, Jim married Colleen Sonnemaker and shared 25 years & two weeks together.
Jim is remembered for his love of the mountains, beautiful singing voice, and lifelong passion for hunting and fishing.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Joyce Beazer (November 10th 1998); and his oldest son, Kenneth James (December 27, 2022).
He is survived by his loving wife, Colleen Sonnemaker; his children: Kathryn Anne (Michael Agrelius), Brad Elliot (Jeanne), Christopher LeRoy (Teresa *) and Tamara Joyce (Kevin Harper); BONUS children: Richard Sonnemaker (Keesha) and Katie Denton; 23 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. As well as bonus brothers and sisters: Jim Nett (Rosa), Bethene, Joyce* (Cliff Trondson*), Eugene*, Floyd Cosner*, Imogene*, Darlene*(Ed Hoople*), Maggie (Bob Forwood), and Dan Cosner (Dianna); and numerous nieces and nephews. (*deceased)
A family viewing will be held from 6:00pm - 8:00pm, on Friday, November 14, at Riplinger Funeral Home, 4305 N. Division St., Spokane. Funeral Services will be at 3:00pm, on Saturday, November 15, at The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, West 2112 Francis Avenue, Spokane, Washington (Bishop Dustin Rippy conducting). Jim will be laid to rest at 2:00pm, on Tuesday, November 18, at Fairmount Memorial Park, 5200 West Wellesley Avenue, Spokane, Washington.