Merton R. Peterson

Peterson, Merton R.
Menasha, Wisconsin
Formerly of Bottineau, North Dakota

Age 78, passed away on Friday morning, May 1, 2009 at his home. He was born on March 14, 1931 in Solway, Minnesota, son of the late Christian and Bernice (Olson) Peterson. After completion of High School, Merton proudly served his country with the United States Navy during the Korean War, earning several citations and 5 Battle Stars for ships that he served on. After returning from the service Merton married Lucille Leier on September 20, 1955 in Bagley, Minnesota. He then continued his education and earned a B.S. from Bemidji State College. Merton was an Accountant and Director of Business Affairs for North Dakota State University – Bottineau for 24 years, retiring on June 30, 1988. During his tenure at NDSU-Bottineau, he also enjoyed working on his “Hobby Farm” where he loved his livestock, especially his calves. Merton was a member of the VFW, Past Commander of the American Legion in Bagley, MN, DAV, and a former Treasurer of the Lion's Club in Bottineau. Merton enjoyed traveling with his wife Lucille, and the couple were members of the North Dakota Motorhome Association. He was a member of Bottineau Country Club, enjoyed golfing, cross-stitching, and had a true gift and a passion for woodworking.

He will be sadly missed by his loving wife, Lucille; two daughters: Mechele (Ben Brotbeck) Peterson M.D., Alexandria, MN; Elizabeth (Derrick) Wallery D.V.M., Chicago, IL; granddaughter: Isabel Wallery, Chicago, IL; brothers: Dean Peterson, Littleton, CO, Kenneth Peterson, Bagley, MN, Paul Peterson, Harper Heights, TX, Keith Peterson, Staples, MN; sisters: Karen Tessier, White Bear Lake, MN, Janet Schrek, Aitken, MN; as well as several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Merton was preceded in death by four brothers: Rodney, Marvis, Wesley, and Lowell; and three sisters: Louise, Maxine, and Hollis.

Memorial services for Merton were held at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, May 6, 2009 at the St. Mary's Catholic Church in Greenville, Wisconsin with Father Mark Vandersteeg officiating. Friends were received at the church from 10:00 A.M. until the time of the service. Merton will be laid to rest in the North Dakota State Veteran's Cemetery in Mandan, ND at 2:00 P.M. on Friday, May 15, 2009, where Full Military Honors will be conducted, and all are welcome to attend.

Wichmann Funeral Home
Tri County Chapel
3212 S. Oneida Street
Appleton, WI 54915
(920) 831-9905