Gust Edwin Peterson 1894-1985

Gust Edwin Peterson, son of Gustavus Walfrid Peterson and Anna Marie Larson Peterson, was born January 31, 1894, near Swedeborg, Missouri; died January 6, 1985 at Tri-County Nursing Home, Richland, Missouri, at the age of 90 years, 11 months, 6 days.

The greater part of his life was lived in Pulaski County, Missouri, except for World War I tour of duty in France, where he proudly served his country in the infantry, was wounded in action and honorably discharged at war’s end.

On February 18, 1920, he was united in marriage to Bertha Payne. To this union two sons were born, Carl Edwin and Ralph Jerry Peterson of Waynesville, Missouri; two daughters, Anna Marie Beckman of St. Peters, Missouri, and Ruth Merlyne Zeigenbein of Richland, Missouri. All survive.

Edwin devoted his life to his cherished wife, children, grandchildren; stewardship of the land, and improvement of community. In his productive years he was active in the American legion. He served 25 years on RI and Laquey School Boards. He helped organize the Missouri Farmer’s Association in Richland, was a member of the board for 28 years. He worked several years with the ASC office at Waynesville, was treasurer of the 177 phone line, and worked for improvement of service and equipment. He was greatly concerned with conservation and soil erosion. He practiced farming methods far ahead of his time.

He dedicated his life to God as a young man. In 1950 he became a member of the First Christian Church at Richland, where he remained a member until his death.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, three sisters, Ethel Peterson, Edna McCann, Hulda Kissinger; one half brother, Helmer Forslund; one great grandchild.

Edwin and Bertha have made their home at Tri-County Nursing Home for over five years. He is survived by his dear wife, two sons, two daughters, twelve grandchildren, thirteen great grandchildren, and one sister, Emma Roam of Crocker, Missouri.

Funeral services were held from the First Christian Church at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, January 9, 1985 with John Davenport, minister officiating. Music was provided by Rusty Shadel, soloist and Mary Lou Blanchard, organist. Interment was in the Swede Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Harvey Lynn Dye, Roy Peterson, Morris Roam, Gary Carmack and Jeff Zeigenbein.

Honorary escorts were Buster Sanders, Charles Tharpe, Clarence Crismon, George Bacon, Keith Lundh and Drue Rayl.

Services were conducted by the Colonial Funeral Chapels.