Norman "Pete" E. Peterson, Jr.

Norman “Pete” E. Peterson, 93, formerly of 281 S. Peters Avenue and Lakeview Place, passed away Tuesday, September 27, 2022 at Hospice Home of Hope in Fond du Lac, following a brief illness. Pete was born June 15, 1929 in Fond du Lac. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ella Mae and Norman E. Peterson, Sr.

He graduated from L.P. Goodrich Senior High School in 1947. To serve his country, Pete proudly enlisted in the U.S. Army on February 16, 1953. During the Korean War Conflict, he was stationed in Germany. While serving there, he earned the Army of Occupation Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal. He was honorably discharged on February 28, 1961. Prior to serving in the Army, Pete also served in the Wisconsin National Guard.

Shortly after his discharge, he met the love of his life, Mary C. Bedessem. They were married in Green Lake, Wisconsin on September 16, 1961. On July 4, 2006, after 45 years together, Mary preceded him in death.

In today’s world, they most likely wouldn’t have found each other or married. Mary had four children from a previous marriage and added them to their relationship. Rather than shy away from his love for Mary and her children, he embraced it. On March 14, 1962, he adopted all four children. This good man of faith, courage and outstanding character was not afraid to do the right thing. The adoption completed his family.

He was employed at Mercury Marine for 42 years and retired as a “master painter”. Whenever he saw a Mercury motor on the street, he would proudly announce, “I painted that one”.

Pete enjoyed fishing, hunting and playing sheepshead. He also followed the Packers, Bucks, and the Brewers. He was a lifetime Cubs fan and cheered for the Brewers only when they weren’t playing the Cubbies.

A devoted family man, Pete cherished gatherings with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He was a charter member of Sacred Heart Chuch, later Holy Family Parish.

Pete was also preceded in death by two sisters, Marie Peterson and Virginia (James) Gorman.

He is survived by his four children, Michael (Jeanne) Peterson of Stow, OH, Trudy (Peter) Hittner, of Kronenwetter, WI, Stephen Peterson of Winona, MN, and Kathleen Schultz (Ron) of Fond du Lac, WI. He also leaves behind 12 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

The visitation will be held Saturday, October 15, 2022 from 10:45 – 11:45 AM at Sacred Heart Church. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:45 AM on Saturday at church. Cremation has taken place and inurnment will follow in Calvary Cemetery with military honors being conducted.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Hospice Hope along with the healthcare professionals and staff at Lakeview Place. Their care and support are deeply appreciated by the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Holy Family Parish or Fond du Lac Humane Society in Pete’s name.

Services are in the care of Uecker-Witt Funeral Home, 524 North Park Avenue, Fond du Lac, WI, 54935. Additional information and guestbook can be found at ueckerwitt.com