Obituary of Robert Peterson

PETERSON, ROBERT Robert Peterson, age 81 passed away Thursday, November 24, 2016 at his home surrounded by his family. On-line condolences may be sent at www.opsahl-kostelfuneralhome.com. Robert L. “Bob” Peterson, age 81 passed away Thursday, November 24, 2016 at his home surrounded by his family. Funeral services will be 10:30 AM, Tuesday, November 29, 2016 at the First United Methodist Church, Yankton, SD with Rev. Ron Johnson officiating. Burial will be in the Yankton Cemetery, Yankton, SD with Military graveside rites by the Ernest–Bowyer VFW Post #791 Honor Guard, the SDARNG Honor Guard and the Patriot Guard Riders, Yankton, SD. Visitations will begin at 5:00 PM, Monday, November 28, 2016 at the Opsahl-Kostel Funeral Home & Crematory, Yankton, SD with a Scripture service at 7:00 PM. Visitations will resume one hour prior to the service at the church. On-line condolences may be sent at www.opsahl-kostelfuneralhome.com. Robert was born February 17, 1935 at rural Viborg, South Dakota to Melby and Alice (Johnson) Peterson. He grew up in the Viborg, SD area and was baptized and confirmed at Bethany Lutheran Church, Viborg, SD. He graduated from Viborg High School in 1953. After his graduation he started work building the Gavins Point Dam and worked there until he enlisted in the US Army serving from March 1955 until his honorable discharge in February 1957 serving with the 69th Field Artillery Battalion. After his discharge he worked at Mathis Brothers Implement and then Clem’s Tire Service in Yankton, SD. After working at Clem’s for a time he became owner in 1980, selling the company to Graham Goodyear in 2000. He also worked as a part-time over the road trucker and delivered cars for local dealers. He was a member of the 1st United Methodist Church, and the American Legion Post #12, both of Yankton, SD. He enjoyed hunting, trap shooting, hobby farming, gardening, and bird watching. Robert is survived by his wife Carol of Yankton, SD, son L.R. “Pete” (Jan) Peterson of Menno, SD, daughter Lori (Gary) Harshfield, of Aurora, CO; 2 grandchildren, and 3 step grandchildren, sister Maris (Richard) Hauger of Sioux Falls, SD. He was preceded in death by his parents. Memorials are directed to the 1st United Methodist Church, 207 West 11th Street, Yankton, SD 57078.