January 20, 2015

H. Eugene Peterson

H. Eugene, “Pete” or “Gene,” Peterson, 81, of Williston, N.D., died Friday morning, Jan. 16, at the Eastern Montana Veteran’s Home in Glendive, Mont.
Gene, also known as Pete, was born on May 1, 1933 to Henry Peterson and Mabel (Magnus) Peterson at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Williston, N.D. Gene was baptized in the yard of their homestead, “The Sand,” by a Lutheran pastor. The preacher came up the day after a snowstorm for the baptism. Due to the storm the preacher ended up staying with them for a few days. Gene was confirmed in the Lutheran Church at Zahl, N.D. He was raised in both the Lutheran and Baptist faith.
Gene attended school in Zahl, N.D. until the 10th grade. Gene later received his GED from UND - Wahpeton. Gene was inducted into the United States Army on May 5, 1953. Gene’s date of appointment to PFC was Sept. 7, 1954. He was honorably discharged May 4, 1955. Gene served in the Korean War for 1 year, 2 months, and 16 days. He was in the Fifth Armored Division, 71st Armored Field Artillery Battalion, Battery A. He received the National Defense Service Medal, the United Nations Service Medal, the Korean Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal.
Gene married Elaine Emma Schepp on May 20, 1961, in Maxbass, N.D. They had three children, Brad, Kari and Mary. Gene and Elaine were married for 42 years.
Gene was a salesman most of his life, and was well known for selling cars in Williston. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing cards, camping, going to Canada, fishing and golfing.  He belonged to the American Legion and the VFW. He was also a member for many years at the Moose Lodge and the Eagles club.
Gene is survived by one son, Brad, of Williston and his children, Kacey Peterson, Christopher Peterson, April Metzger,  Nicholas  Metzger , Shawna (Chris) Wolfe, and their daughter Oaklie Jada Wolfe; one daughter,  Kari (Joel) Grieger of Arnegard, N.D., and their children, Jacob and Sara; one sister Helen Pederson of Williston; and one brother,  Robert, and his wife, Dorothy Peterson, of Williston; and various nieces and nephews.
Preceding Gene in death is his wife, Elaine, infant daughter Mary, and his parents, Henry and Mable Peterson, and one brother in law, Paul Pederson.
His funeral service will be held at 2 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 20, at the Fulkerson Funeral Home Chapel in Williston. Rev. Kevin Beard will officiate. Interment with military honors will be in Riverview Cemetery, Williston.
Friends may call at the Fulkerson Funeral Home in Williston on Monday from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m., and Tuesday from 9 a.m. until service time. Friends may sign the on-line register and give their condolences at www.fulkersons.com
 

WATFORD CITY WEATHER