Dorothy E. Peterson

Age 99 (2 months shy of 100)​Was born in North Branch on January 22, 1920, to Charles and Alma Gustafson, died November 13, 2019.  Valedictorian of her high school class and commencement speaker, she married Lawrence Peterson in 1941, forgoing a college scholarship. With an advanced degree in compassion and kindness, she practiced her faith by reaching out to people in need, sharing food, supporting "people’s rights being respected," always welcoming strangers and foreign visitors into her home. She loved children, learning, teaching, serving as Sunday School Superintendent at Roseville Lutheran Church, where she was a member 70+ years.  A world traveler and flower gardener, she fed the birds, cherished all nature. Loving and beloved by many, she inspired others by her tireless gratitude.  Preceded in death by spouse Lawrence & grandson Jay Johnson.  She was devoted to her family and will be deeply missed by children, Lee/Leroy, Jean Greenwood, Fay Kotilinek (David); grandchildren, Dawn Whalen, Elissa Johnson (Ron), Sara Deveneau (Bobby), Jessie Starken (Dan), Brita Jennissen (Matt); great grandchildren, Grace Whalen, Jeremy Deveneau, Garrett & Mitchell Starken, Amber Jennissen.  Service 11 AM Thursday, November 21 at ROSEVILLE LUTHERAN CHURCH, 1215 W. Roselawn Ave.  Visitation 1 hour prior. Interment Spring Lake Cemetery, North Branch.  Memorials preferred to: The Nature Conservancy or Roseville Lutheran Church (Oringa School)