Gloria N. Peterson

MADISON-Gloria Noreen (Skuldt) Peterson, age 85, of Madison, Wis., was called home on Nov. 17, 2015, after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. Gloria was born April 21, 1930, in Madison, Wis., and attended Madison East High School. She received a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1952 and worked for the Social Security Administration and later the University of Wisconsin Survey Research Lab. Gloria married Donald R. Peterson on Oct. 15, 1955, and raised four children. She was a devoted daughter, wife, and mother who cherished her family. Gloria was a devout Lutheran and proud of her Norwegian heritage. She was a gifted musician via piano, alto saxophone, and voice. From her father, Gloria inherited a love of gardening which she passed on to her children. Gloria knitted hundreds of hats and mittens that she marketed at numerous craft fairs. Even as she declined, Gloria maintained her quick wit and vibrant blue eyes to the end. The family is grateful to Sienna Meadows and Agrace Hospice staff for their compassionate care. Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, Hiram & Millie Skuldt; husband, Donald; sister, Eileen (John) Haugen, and son Ralph. Gloria is survived by daughter, Noreen (Wayne) Ratzlaff of Geneva, Ill.; daughter, Kristin Peterson of Edgerton, Wis.; daughter-in-law, Christine Bardwell of Wyoming, Minn.; son, Paul (Danielle) Peterson of Shoreview, Minn. and their children, Kirsten, Andrea, Kate, and Andrew; and several nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, Nov. 21, at 11 a.m. at GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH, 1 S Rosa Rd, Madison, Wis. A private burial will follow. Friends and family may visit from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at the church prior to the service.  Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608)221-5420