Jean Peterson
Beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and pillar of her community, Jean Peterson passed away peacefully on Dec. 22, 2024, in Tucson at the age of 92. Born in Cedar Springs, Michigan, on March 10, 1932, Jean’s life was one of service, love, and compassion.
Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Fred, and her son, John.
She is survived by her brother, Mick Peterson; children, Debbie (Dave) Ostrander, Mary (Bill) Roush, Beth Coughanour, Fred (Judy) Peterson, Cissy Brown, Katherine (Jerry) Johnson and Tyler (Mitzi) Peterson; 23 grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren and 16 great-great-grandchildren.
Jean completed high school in Cedar Springs.
She married Fred Peterson in 1950. Together, they built a loving family and a life full of cherished memories during their 62 years of marriage. Jean was devoted to her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, each of whom she adored.
A longtime resident of Oracle, Jean made her mark on the community as a teacher’s assistant at Avenue B Elementary School for more than 20 years and as the founder of the Tri-City Food Bank in 1980. She also fostered numerous children, embodying compassion and generosity throughout her life. Jean’s kindness extended far beyond her family, touching the lives of everyone she met. She was crowned the Red Flannel Festival Queen in 1948, a title that reflected her radiant and warm personality.
Jean’s funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Jan. 18, at the Oracle Union Church in Oracle, located at 705 E. American Ave., followed by the interment of her ashes at Oracle Cemetery, where she will be reunited with her husband, Fred. All are welcome to celebrate her remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to your local food bank in Jean’s honor.