Bernard Peterson

Peterson, Bernard WEST PRAIRIE / MADISON / OREGON - Bernard Peterson, age 88, passed away on Friday, Oct. 20, 2006, surrounded by his loving family. He was born Feb. 23, 1918, in West Prairie, Vernon County, the son of Elmer Louis and Anna Thealina (Simonson) Peterson. Bernard helped with the farm and raising his younger brothers and sisters, after his mother passed away when he was 15 years old. He joined the Civilian Conservation Corps and was stationed in Camp Loyal and Camp Viroqua. Bernard enlisted in the U.S. Army on July 25, 1940, and was stationed in Ft. Lewis, Wash., for nine months. He rapidly was promoted to Drill Sergeant and was a Heavy Weaponry Instructor, training numerous recruits. Bernard was shipped overseas on Dec. 9, 1944, and was involved in the Battles of Ardennes and Rhineland. He received two Bronze Battle Stars, in addition to the American Theater Ribbon, the American Defense Ribbon, the Victory Medal, the European African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon, an Overseas Service Bar and a Good Conduct Medal. Bernard was very proud of being able to serve his country. He was honorably discharged on Dec. 9, 1945. In 1954, he married Donna J. Spears. They lived at Waubesa Beach for 40 years. Bernard worked for 31 years at Oscar Mayer. He loved gardening, fishing, hunting, camping and time with his family. Bernard is survived by his five children, Larry (Karen) Hooverson of Janesville, Sharon Peterson of Brooklyn, Dixie (Dennis) Brown of Oregon, Bernard (Cynthia) Peterson Jr. of Stoughton and Conrad (Ellen) Peterson of Stoughton; seven granddaughters, Darcy, Crystal, Erin (Cory), Ashley, Haley, Kiya and Annie; three great-granddaughters, Elisa, Natalee and Alexis; three step-granddaughters, Judi (Mike), Jill and Casey; three sisters, Elnora Dahl, Alice (Wally) Engrav and Olene Lothen; two brothers, Palmer (Ellie) Peterson and Melvin (Margaret) Peterson; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Donna; his parents; three brothers, Lloyd, Edwin and Clarence; and two sisters, Evelyn Olson and Bertha Peterson. Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Dr, at 2 p.m., on Monday, Oct. 23, 2006, with the Rev. Bob Groth presiding. Burial will be at Roselawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until the time of the service on Monday. Memorials may be made in Bernards name, for a fund to be established. A heartfelt thanks to the nurses and staff at Badger Prairie Health Care Center, for their excellent care. Thanks Dad, for showing us how to enjoy life. We will miss your loving presence and guidance. We know you are going to be the master gardener in Gods heavenly garden. Gunderson East Funeral and Cremation Centers 5203 Monona Dr. (608) 221-5420 www.gundersonfh.com