Monona - Donald Lee Peterson, age 84, of Monona, passed away on Sunday, Sept. 25, 2022, with his daughter by his side. He was born on March 28, 1938, in Madison, Wis., the son of Arnold Peterson and Clara (Marheine) Peterson.

Donald graduated from Madison West High School in 1957. After high school he proudly served in the U. S. Air force. Prior to retirement, Donald worked as a computer programmer for the State of Wisconsin Department of Industry, Labor & Human Relations (DILHR).

Donald was a man who loved his family, was proud of serving his country and community, and loved being a member of the Monona Volunteer Fire Department. He could fix anything and was always willing to give a helping hand. He enjoyed hunting, camping, fishing, trap shooting and his yearly Bear Bluff deer camp trips with his friends. He loved cooking and spending holidays with his family and his tradition of making rosette cookies with his family at Christmas. He was very proud of his Norwegian heritage.

Don said he lived a great life. He was grateful for his family and the great friends he made along the way that were like family. He was proud of his accomplishments.

Dad, you were the strongest man I know. You will always be my hero and I already miss you more than words can express. I love you.

Donald is survived by his daughter, Tricia Dee (Dan) Buscher; son, James Peterson; step-daughter, Tonya Reed; steps-son, Jeffrey Gust; sister, Rhoda (Harold) Ackels; granddaughters, Alexandria Buscher, Danielle Buscher, Heather Reed and Michaela Reed; grandson, Joseph Gust; and great-granddaughters, Savannah and Evangelina. He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Carolyn Leece.

A funeral service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 1 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 3, 2022. Burial will be held at Roselawn Memorial Park. A visitation will be held at the funeral home from 11 a.m. until the time of the service on Monday.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to St. Stephens Lutheran Church ECLA or to the Monona Fire Department. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Donald Peterson

March 28, 1938 - September 25, 2022

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