Emil Morris "Pete" Petersen

Emil Morris “Pete” Petersen was born on Pi Day, March 14,1929 and just like the mathematical phenomenon, he was a constant and dependable figure in the life of his family. Pete died peacefully of natural causes on October 3, 2024, at the age of 95. He is survived by his five children, Michelle Petersen Palmer, David Lance Petersen, Lisa (Petersen) Crist, and the twins, Bryan and Barry Petersen, his 16 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Pete was born on a farm in Madison, Nebraska to Pete and Anna Petersen where he grew up milking cows and working the land. The family moved to South Gate, California when he was a teenager. Directly after high school, Pete joined the US Army making Staff Sargeant. Pete held many jobs ranging from machinist to real estate agent, but when he entered politics, he found his true passion. He worked on many campaigns including Ronald Reagan for Governor and Sam Yorty for LA Mayor. Upon his retirement, Pete moved to Sun City, AZ and immediately joined the garden club. Always a farm boy at heart, he quickly became an active member and served as the club’s president for many years. He spearheaded the club’s citrus gleaning program which resulted in hundreds of tons of lemons, oranges and grapefruit being donated to the St. Mary’s Food Bank. In 2011, his dedication and contributions to helping others received special recognition by Governor Janice Brewer. He also took up golf when he retired and enjoyed weekly rounds with his men’s group and playing with his grandsons when they visited. Pete loved God, his country, was devoted to his children and always ready to help his friends and neighbors. He will be missed by all who knew him. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Fairway Recreation Center in Sun City on Saturday, November 9 at 2 p.m. with a reception to follow.