Walter Alexander Peterson

Walter Alexander Peterson, born on October 31, 1932, passed away at Ecumen Memory Care at the age of 92. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hannah and Carl Peterson; his wife, Betty Heaslip Peterson; his brother, Herbert Peterson; and his sister, Irene Peterson, who passed away at an early age.

Walter is survived by his son, Tim Peterson; granddaughter, Corey (Phillip Easterly); great-granddaughter, Ava Easterly; daughter, Diane Demeria McKendree (Ron); her children, Jacey Yeager, Jennifer White, Jody Peterson, her grandchildren and her great grandchildren; and Walt's life partner, JoAnne Ludwig.

A proud graduate of Denfeld High School, class of 1950, Walter was actively involved in the reunion committee and enjoyed attending all the reunions. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he quickly rose through the ranks and found great enjoyment in his service. Following his military career, Walter worked at Western Electric before joining the Duluth Police Department, where he served for 37 years, eventually becoming an inspector and deputy chief.

Walter was an avid sports enthusiast, closely following the Twins, Timberwolves, and Vikings. He was a passionate golfer at Enger Park, a member of the Duluth Curling Club, and part of a Bocce team at Wheeler Field with friends. In his later years, he found great joy in watching golf on TV.

Walter was confirmed at First Covenant Church and had fond memories of growing up in the West End, cherishing his childhood friends. He was a past member of the American Legion and valued the friendships he made during his time with the police department. Walter always appreciated those who visited him and spoke often of his loyal friends, including his best friend, Rudy Senich Sr., and Rudy Senich Jr., who continued to visit him regularly.

Special thanks to Ecumen Lakeshore Memory Care, Hospice, Dr. Kleinschmidt and staff, and St. Luke’s Family, Walter loved being a member of the Heaslip family through his wife, Betty.

In his later years, Walter attended Coppertop First United Methodist Church. He loved traveling, especially to Sweden, where his father was born. Walter always said he had the best life of anyone he knew. He particularly enjoyed the retirees group that met every month for lunch, which was the highlight of his month.

Walter will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A celebration of life will be held at 1PM, Sunday September 28, 2025, at Blackwoods Proctor, 195 US-2, Proctor, MN 55810.

Memorials can be directed to Denfeld High School Legacy Fund for Youth Golf, and Enger Youth Golf, or donor’s choice.

Arrangements by Williams Lobermeier Boettcher Funeral Home, 218-624-1059, please visit www.wlbduluth.com to sign the online guestbook.