John E. Peterson

JOHN E. PETERSON, 85, Rockford, died at 2:30P.M., Monday, September 10, 2007, in Provena St. Anne Center. Born June 8, 1922 in Rockford, the son of Edwin A. and Irene (Olson) Peterson. John graduated from East High School and Augustana College. He served during WWII as a P-51 pilot with the Flying Tigers in the China-Burma- India Theater. He is a member of Pilot Classes of 1944. He married Marjorie Commer on April 23, 1949, in Rockford. John was employed 30 years as a sales representative in the northern division for Liebovich Brothers, Inc. He was previously employed for several years in sales for Morton Salt Co. John is survived by his wife of 58 years, Marjorie, children; Tom (Alison) of Tennessee, Jim (Christina) of Georgia, and Jane (John) Hooker of Rockford; grandchildren, Keegan and Hallie Peterson of Georgia, Molly and Sadie Hooker of Rockford and Lilah and Liam Peterson of Tennessee; sister, Dorothy Crowell, brother Richard (June) Peterson, all of Nevada and several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents, brother-in-law, Frank Crowell, and two nephews, Rob Peterson and Kevin Crowell. John was an avid and excellent golfer. He was captain of his college golf team and competed in numerous tournaments throughout his life. He was a 3-time club champion at Mauh-Nah-Tee- See Country Club where he was a member for many years. He coached for his sons baseball teams at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church and was instrumental in the development of the Highcrest league for other church teams. John faced many major health problems in the past few years with courage and dignity while maintaining his great sense of humor. Johns family dearly loved and respected him. Private family graveside services will be held. There will be a celebration of Johns life for family and friends at Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Country Club, 5151 Guilford Rd., Rockford, on Thursday, September 13, 2007, from 4PM until 7PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.