COTTAGE GROVE - Carol A. Peterson, age 71, of Cottage Grove, passed away on Monday, September 21, 2026, at St. Mary's Hospital. She was born on October 16, 1954, in Madison, the daughter of Elmo and Geneva (Parmeter) Peterson.

Carol graduated from Madison East High School in 1972. She married Vergil Peterson on July 19, 1986, at Bethel Lutheran Church in Madison. Carol worked as a Payroll and Benefits Specialist in the Department of Biochemistry at UW-Madison, where she dedicated many years of service. In recognition of her commitment and contributions, she received the Classified Staff Recognition Award from the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS).

Carol found joy in many hobbies and interests throughout her life. She was an avid seamstress and baker and cherished spending time in Door County and traveling to National Parks, including the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone. She also loved to dance, taking tap classes as both a student and adult and sharing many dances with Vergil over the years. Above all, Carol treasured the memories made with those she loved and the simple pleasures that brought happiness to her life.

Carol is survived by her husband, Vergil; daughters, Crystal Peterson and Hayley Peterson; granddaughter, Nevara Blum; and sister, Karen Peterson. She was preceded in death by her parents, Elmo and Geneva.

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Friday, October 2, 2026, with Pastor Todd McVey presiding. A luncheon will follow. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday.

Memorials may be made to the Dane County Humane Society. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Carol Ann Peterson

October 16, 1954 - September 21, 2026

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