Condolences for Walter Ray Petersen
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From Marvin Wharton:
I only knew the Doctor briefly, moving to Burley in 1978 and leaving in 1982. I found him to be very deserving of the kind remarks made about him. Being 6 months younger than him I may be blessed to meet him again soon and learn more from his great wisdom.
From Dennis and Char Chatterton:
We were so sorry to hear of the passing of Dr. Petersen. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. We lived in Burley during the 1970’s. I coached and taught at Burley High School and Burley Junior High School and my wife was a Registered Nurse at the hospital. We loved the Petersen family. I got to know several of his children through school and Char worked with Dr. Petersen at the hospital. Dr. Petersen was so dedicated to athletics at the High School. The Petersen family were pillars of the community and Dr. Petersen will be missed by all. Please accept our heartfelt condolences.
From David Udall:
I Loved you Dad and Husband. We served together in Uruguay and played on the famous Deseret Basketball team. Walt was two years ahead of me so we only got one season together. Later, we served as mission presidents at the same time. When Louise and I served as president and Matron of the Paraguay temple your dad was serving as the south american Doctor. You might enjoy the attached photo taken in about 2010 in Asuncion Paraguay with Terry and Gina Wade, Mission President, you mom and Dad, area Doctor and David and Louise Udall Temple President. (Sorry, I could not get it to attach. Send me an email, and I will send it to you.)
From Becky Ralphs Swain:
I have many wonderful memories of being a teenager in the Petersen home - you were so generous in creating a space to gather. Loved the waffle parties and plane rides! Dr. Petersen had a great sense of humor and sense of fun. I have a great picture of him pulling his pants up to his chest and acting like an old geezer. Grateful for his generosity and loving spirit. I always felt welcome in your home. Truly a Christ-like man. Love to you at this time.
From Corine Larson Bradshaw:
Sending my sympathy to the Petersen family. There can be so much said about Dr. Petersen, a person whose life was so well-lived. I am very grateful for his kindness he showed to me growing up and my family. He seemed to envelope people with his love and made us all feel like we were his favorite friend. He made me feel like that when I was 14 years old and 50 years old. He was a true disciple of Christ. May the Petersen's especially be comforted by Him who he emulated so well, and also by the remembrances of his goodness, compassion and love for them.
From Jack Hill:
When ever I think of President Petersen I am reminded of the scripture that says “seek ye first the Kingdom of God and all else shall be given unto you”. He delivered our children, he healed us when we sick or needed stitches, he gave us much love and spiritual guidance. It was a pleasure to serve with him. He will be missed. May the Lord assuage the grief of the family and leave only the bright memories. Much love and respect. Jack & Laura Hill and family.
From David Bedke:
The entire city of Burley Idaho was blessed when Walter and Eileen Petersen made the decision in 1966 on where to raise their family. The family of Herman and Ruby Bedke enjoyed many years as being your friends. You were there in our youth as Bishop, family doctor, spiritual doctor and so much more. You attended our marriages, provided comforting words upon the passing of my parents, and always were an example of a disciple of Jesus Christ. The Petersen family has helped many of us keep on the straight and narrow path and still have fun. I will always have a special spot in my heart for Walter and Eileen Petersen.
From Judy Thomas Woodward:
I want to add to my memory...I just realized that Bishop Petersen passed away on my anniversary on August 21st. As I posted in my memory, he attended my wedding on that day in the Logan Temple 45 years ago. Many prayers and hugs to your family.
From Judy Thomas Woodward:
I am eternally grateful that Bishop Petersen was my Bishop during my youth. His spiritual and kind leadership helped shape my testimony that helped guide me through the critical crossroads of my life. As a youth, I leaned on his every word. I loved our Sunday night youth firesides as Bishop Petersen knew how to guide our discussions to what matter to us! I know that I wouldn’t have made some of the decisions that lead to a temple marriage with my husband of 45 years without his guiding influence. By the way, he took time out of his busy schedule to attend my temple wedding in Logan. Realizing now what a young bishop he was at that time, I am further amazed at how wonderful a spiritual leader Bishop Peterson was! Thank you Sister Petersen for sharing him, because he truly made a difference in my life!
From Vaughn Egan:
He was my doctor for awhile and I remember him fixing my hand when a board flipped back when I was using my saw. I enjoyed being in the Burley 3rd Ward with him for over 30 years! A great man!
From Lynette and Shayne Bowen:
Dear Eileen, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. We feel so blessed to know you and Walt. Your lives are the best sermon there could ever be on selfless, loving service. The two of you have blessed countless lives. We love you!
From Derlin Taylor:
Walt Petersen is my friend, mentor and hero. Few people measure up to Walt. He is a shining light in a dark world. He will not be forgotten.
From Connie Taylor Ward:
Dr. Petersen was the person who ushered me and my five younger siblings into this world. He may have been my mom's favorite doctor of all time. What a terrific man who loved on my family and took care of us. I always appreciate the time he took to answer my teenage religious questions that I would relay through his son. What a legacy he created. I believe his was a life well spent.
From Dave Williams:
I've been thinking about Pres. Walt Petersen and his family a lot over the last few days... He had an amazing impact on my life for which I will always be grateful. The Petersen house was essentially a second home to me growing up. Whether it was snow skiing, water skiing, early morning basketball, airplane rides, fixing me up on the football field, sending me on a mission and a host of other things, Walt touched so many parts of my life. Will miss him greatly. He is a true disciple of Jesus Christ. Best wishes to the Petersen family. Love you guys and you'll be in our prayers.
From Dave Jensen:
What a blessing his life was to so many. His love, kindness, and leadership will be felt for generations. May the Lord bless the entire Petersen family.
From Cindy Gillett Mangum:
When I think about this great man I can’t help but see a vision of his smile and feel the genuine love that he had for everyone. Thoughts and prayers to you Eileen and to your beautiful family. May you find peace knowing he touch so many.
From Steve Weed:
Walt Peterson is on my list of heroes. He was the Bishop of my youth and was instrumental in guiding me throughout my life with the lessons he taught in both word and example. We had many wonderful Sunday evening youth firesides where this young thirtysomething Bishop, probably fresh from delivering a baby and without having had his dinner, held our attention and taught us the truths of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Sister Peterson, from the children of Floyd and Deaun Weed, we send our love and gratitude for the opportunity to have known you and your dear husband during the formative years of our lives. May the Lord bless you and your family at this tender time.
From Mike & Nan Matthews:
Dr. Petersen was our family doctor for years. He was also a friend. He would always take time to say hello when our paths crossed after his retirement. What a great and honorable man! Thank you!
Best wishes for all his family at this time.
From Garth and Jean Freymiller:
We send our condolences toEileen and the whole Petersen family! I'll just say Amen to all the thoughts thathave been previously said! Dr. Walt was a great man who will be greatly missed by all who knew and associated with him!
From Jenny Easton:
So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers.
From Ida Kuwana Nelson. :
We are so sorry for your loss. He was truly a great man and the world has lost a honest and wonderful man.
From Guy Redder:
Walter Peterson is one of finest men I have ever met. I first met him when I was about 14 and he ask me to mow his grass ever week. I lived down the street and I told him I would be happy to. That’s when I learned of his kindness and love for me and others. Over the years I have had many interactions withSports,Church, Business and medical services. President and Sister Peterson are the finest example of living a Christ centered life. Sister Peterson and family our thoughts and prayers are extended in your behalf.
From Ellen Judd :
He was my bishop, professional mentor, and friend for over 50 years. I am so grateful To have known him, and for his influence in my life. Thank you for sharing him all these years. May you have peace.
From D. Kelly and Marcia Ogden:
How many noble and great titles can one man have Walter Petersen was also known as Elder Petersen, Bishop Petersen, President Petersen, Doctor Petersen, Patriarch Petersen, and especially husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was our area doctor in Central America, and he and his wonderful wife Eileen worked very closely with my wife and me while presiding over the Guatemala MTC. President Petersen was a very close colleague and associate in helping many hundreds of missionaries from all over the Americas. Plus, we traveled all over the “land of eternal spring” together, and later we traveled all over the Mediterranean world together. We know him to be a pure, gentle, and loving soul. He is the epitome of the term used in Doctrine and Covenants 76 for those who are exalted in the celestial kingdom of God—valiant. Praise to the man, Walter Petersen!
From Rick & Sherma Poteet:
Just a few days before the passing of your dear husband, Rick and I met a handsome young Elder, recently reassigned to the Pocatello mission and serving in Burley. Were we ever happy to share with “Elder Petersen” how much we love his grandparents! We explained that his Grandpa delivered all of our children and was the MOST caring doctor we've ever known. He was even available for a HOME visit between his Sunday meetings with our sick baby. And Grandma was just as kind--she was an example of a helpmeet as she sustained her busy doctor and church leader husband. Sis. Petersen, retirement for you did not mean resting…the two of you have been the greatest examples to us of wearing out one's life in service. How grateful we are to have been blessed by the kind, Christ-like life of Pres. Petersen! Our love and prayers are with you.
From Lorna & Carl Coombs:
I cannot say enough good about this man. I have such a great love for him. He made everyone feel important. He was completely sincere in everything he did. His life was a great example of Christ-like service. He taught me so much and I know that my life is better because of knowing him and his family. I think about all he did throughout his life and I know that he could not have done it without the support of his wonderful wife, Eileen. She was always there taking care of things so that he could put all his talents to good use. She was a supporter, a cheerleader, a confidant, a manager, a taxi driver, a cook, etc. Without her he could not have touched the lives of so many. What a wonderful family. I feel so blessed to be so close to this family for so many years. Carl & I will cherish all our memories and all we learned from this great man.
From Elaine Thompson:
I was saddened at the news of Dr. Petersen's passing. He was my wonderful doctor for many years and delivered my daughter in 1969. My prayers go out to the family and know that he will be missed by all that knew him.
From Laurel Jensen:
I am saddened at the news of Dr Petersen's death. He was my Stake President, my colleage at the Burley Hospital for many years. He taught me many things. He was my friend. My prayers are with the family and knowing the Plan of Salvation is real. That brings peace.
From Josefina Ambriz:
Mi amado Presidente cómo olvidar sus amorosos abrazos y su gran sonrisa, lo recuerdo aún al lado de su linda esposa en el sellamiento de la Hermana Cortés y escuchar decir mi nombre, que emoción sentí. Hermana querida le mando un abrazo grande que El Padre Celestial de consuelo a su alma.
From Justin Young:
Presidente Peterson was my mission president in the Merida Mexico mission. He's great man and showed great love to all those around him a true example of Christ. My deep condolences to Hermana Peterson. My first memory of them at our mission home was truly special. The spirit that was there helped me to know that everything would be all right even though I was in a strange and very humid land :) Pres. Peterson later saved my life from dengue fever by letting my companion know which medicine I needed. I was able to jump up from my hammock within an hour or so as if nothing was ever the matter. His Christlike example helped us all to be Christlike servants.
From Clip Holverson:
President Petersen was one of my mission presidents in Mérida, México. What a loving, spiritual giant of a man. One of the best examples of Christlike love I have ever known. His wife was always amazing as well. Knowing them has made me be a better person. 'Til we meet again.
From Seth and Carrol Robins:
We love Bishop Peterson. He was our singles ward Bishop and interviewed us and gave us council before our temple sealing. We have such sweet memories of him, our most tender memory of him was watching him become emotional and not being able to speak during our interview as he talked about his wife Eileen. We both knew that was a marriage we wanted, one out of love, respect and service towards one another. We so appreciate and love his dedication to the Savior he showed us through his testimony and example. We were so fortunate to have crossed paths with such a wonderful family. Much love and prayers to you Peterson family.
From Lyle and Jennifer Sager:
This wonderful kind man was our first Bishop when we moved to Burley. He was a true example of Christlike love. We send our love and condolences.
From Lottie Hurst :
He was such an example to all and you were by his side and shared all ,my love to you at this time of adjustment,thankful for family to help you through this
From Darin & Valerie Moon:
My brother is deaf and Doctor Petersen was the only person who could make him feel that his health is ok. Doc is not only a doctor but melted into our family and we loved him. I’m so sure he did that to everyone. Kind and genuine! You will be missed doc, but never ever forgotten!! Enjoy your time together and cherish your memories.
From Hugo and Nuria Martinez:
We knew him as Elder Petersen when he served as Area Medical Advisor in Central America. His example of dedication and faith was uplifting. A few years later we met on a tour in the Middle East. It was astounding to see that Eileen and Walt had more stamina than us. We last met in April 2019 when a few of those who had served in Central America gathered. Thanks for everything! We will miss you, Walt.
From Christine Jones:
What a wonderful life! ! The Petersen family was such a boon to the church, community and all who know them! Thank you for being such a great example, Walt and Eileen, and for your goodness to my parents, Duane and RosaLee Hansen, through the years!
From Dennis Dudley :
Dr. Peterson, was a good friend, family doctor served in the temple together. He did like water skiing . One day I was at the river and he came down, took off his suit jacket, sat on the dock, took off his shoes and socks rolled up his pants legs and someone handed him a rope and he went around the island at least once, came back to the dock, sat on the dock and put his shoes and socks back on and left.
From Karla (brown) Spear:
I loved Dr. Petersen.
He delivered 5 of my 6 children. He was there for me when my first daughter passed away at 16 months of age. I loved his sense of humor. His huge smile. His hugs. His wife. You could always find him on Christmas Eve rushing around All over Burley doing his Christmas shopping. when Leslie was born, he Asked Tammi (3) if she wanted to trade the baby for a puppy. I learned a lot about him in reading his obituary. He was a humble man. Never talking about himself. Always concerned with others. I always thought he looked like President Gerald Ford.
I’m so thankful he was part of our lives
He will be missed
From Janette Turner:
Sorry for the loss of your sweetheart. I remember him feeding Paul the hot pepper when we visited you in Mexico. He laughed pretty hard.
From Sally (Nelson) Newton :
We have truly lost a dear friend with the passing of Walt on to his next adventure. We send our love and prayers for peace and comfort to you Eileen and your children and grandchildren. He helped me personally grow my testimony of the Savior as a teenager while serving as my Bishop and continued to be A true friend for my parents as they served together in the church, flew the plane and helped them through health challenges. I’m hoping Walt and my dad are enjoying reuniting and flying together (with or without a plane)! Thank you Eileen and family for sharing this wonderful man with us all.
From Dennis Konrad:
Doc you will be missed! I remember the many times he came to the house on Saturday mornings to see how I was doing. What a great man. So sorry for your loss.
From Eileen A. Petersen:
I have read these additional condolences this morning (Monday). They are so comforting, along with all the facebook and personal words shared. Walt knew people liked him, but I don't think he realized how much they truly loved and appreciated him. Perhaps his spirit can see all these kind thoughts. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. (Wasn't I lucky to be born in Walt's hometown and that my Daddy wanted to move back to Idaho after he worked in the shipyards in Long Beach during WWII, even though my Mom wanted to stay in sunny California.) The Lord is in charge! It's so lonesome without Walt. I'm thankful for our priesthood temple sealing and that the Savior has made it possible for us to be together forever in the hereafter. Love to all from Eileen.
From Larry and Kathy Adams:
He was always so kind and complimentary. He was very caring as my doctor and very supportive as we served in several assignments together. I always enjoyed seeing him at the temple. He will be missed.
From Maurene sargent:
The world has said goodby to a wonderful man. Heaven has. Gained much. Best love to Eileen and fami
From Al Barrus:
Walt was a hero of mine from our neighborhood in Wendell and a friend and inspiration from the time we moved to Burley. Walt and Eileen are true examples of Christ like love and service. Walt will be missed by all who knew him.
From Donovan Petersen:
I am so sorry to hear this; condolences to the family. President Petersen was one of the greatest men I've ever met. I would be lying if I didn't say he truly inspired me to be a better person, just by being him. To top it all off, he was the best doctor I've ever had. He will be missed.
From Renée Wood Packer :
How I love dear Walt and his beloved Eileen. Walt was my Bishop and then later my Stake President at the time of my marriage to my husband, Steve, His gentle, yet powerful influence for good has remained with me all my life! Bless you Eileen and your family! May you receive the needed peace and comfort during this time of loss. We love you and your family!
From Stan & Betty Rasmussen:
We will miss the always kind, loving gracious man to our family. His example was unforgettable.
From Karina Artiga:
Querida hermana Peterson, enviamos todo nuestro amor para usted y su familia desde El Salvador. Siempre les recordamos con aprecio y agradecimiento por todo su servicio trabajando en el templo de nuestro país. Que hermoso fue conocerles, y sabemos que el Pdte. Peterson continúa trabajando en la obra ahora ya desde el otro lado del velo. Un abrazo.
From Leslie Taylor Joyce:
It is difficult to put into words what Walt meant to me and my family. He was our neighbor, our Bishop, our Stake President, our doctor, and our friend. He was a perfect example of Christlike love and every time I was in his presence, I felt that Walt was showing me how the Savior would look at me or listen to me. I always walked away from an conversation with him determined to be better, kinder and more Christlike in my dealings with others. Thank you to all the Petersens for sharing him with the two Taylor kids who lived down the road. Aaron and I will be eternally grateful. Love you all.
From Royce and Janet Otte and family:
Eileen and family,
Thank you for sharing your Dad with us. He did heal the physical illnesses and the spiritual soul. Because of Dr. Peterson’s inspiration we have our youngest son. Thank you! Thank you Dr. Petersen and Eileen for your encouragement, time, patience, love and friendship. We will miss Dr. Petersen. Our love and prayer to Eileen and the family.
Sincerely and with much love,
From Gordon Kerbs:
Peterson Family,
My heart goes out to you all. What a great man and what great family that has had a huge impact on my life. The mold was broke when Doc Petersen was born. Love you all and may God Bless You.
From Dr. J. Cade Christensen:
A wonderful individual. I am blessed to have known and learned from him as a missionary in Merida, Yucatán, Mexico. He will be missed. His Christ-like example has helped me throughout my life. Never forgotten. Until we meet again!
From Kathryn Hall:
Walt Petersen was my Bishop, my stake President, my friend and my kindred spirit with our love for La Mision Uruguaya. A great man
From Scott Melling:
Pres Petersen was an inspiring example to me of a true disciple of Jesus Christ. He not only served as our bishop, stake president, and family doctor, but more importantly he was our longtime neighbor and friend. He was a tremendous role model for me growing up and throughout my life. He put forth his best effort in everything he set out to do and truly strived to love and serve others in any way he could. He had a special way of taking a genuine interest in you and making you feel important. I especially loved his zeal for faithfully living the gospel and sharing it with everyone. He had a powerful testimony of our Savior and Restoration of His Church in these latter days. It made a lasting impression on me for which I will always cherish.
From G Chad Jones:
President and Sister Petersen are examples of sacrifice and consecrated lives for each of us. Thank you for your examples!!
President Petersen has been an influence for good in my life since the day he moved to Burley. He was my Bishop, doctor, Stake President...and friend. Other than my father, none has had such an impact in my life. I can point to three critical crossroads in my life....Walt Petersen had his arm around me helping at each turn. The world lost a great one at his passing.
He will be missed by Chad, Bonnie Jones and family.
Petersen family.... thanks for sharing.
From Lamont and Colleen Carson:
It was a privilege to call my Bishop and Doctor a friend as well. I’m so glad we had a short visit just as he and Eileen we’re leaving Burley for Utah. That gave us a chance to let him know what a great example he was in our lives. His friendship sustained us in tough times, his testimony inspired us and his life was an example of service to all of us. Prayers of comfort to all of his family.
From Brian & Debra Barlow:
Dear Eileen and family, truly our hearts and prayers are with you. This is hard even though it is time. It leaves such a hole in your hearts.
Dr Peterson was always been there to take care of our physical difficulties and also helped with our spiritual growth in so so many ways at so many different times in our lives. We love Walt, Eileen and your family. Thank you so much for all of the love you have given us through the years.
From Paul & Susan Young:
Our first bishop when we moved to Burley was Bishop Walt Petersen. He even stopped in to visit. He was Paul’s mentor in priesthood callings in so many ways, by example, training, and testimony. Walt and Eileen have been such gracious friends through the years, making us feel welcome and appreciated. Thank you Walt and Eileen for the examples of your love of the Savior, your dedication and
sacrifice of serving the Lord all over the world, and enduring to the end with joy in your heart. We will miss the earthly presence of Pres. Petersen but we know he will be given much to do in another realm and his service will continue to bless their family. Love to you Eileen and family.
From Eileen Petersen:
I've been able to read these kind, lovely condolences to here as of 1:00 Sunday afternoon, Aug 23, 2020. Thank you so very much everyone.
In addition to being surrounded by "the protective circle of love and support" from our children and grandchildren as Steve described it this morning in a text, and as I feel the love and Atonement and Grace of the Savior, your comments give me much solace and comfort. I have pinched myself my whole life that I was so blessed to be married to Walter Petersen....just a little Wendell 7th grader when he was a senior. Our daughter Janie wrote that touching obituary. Love from Eileen and family.
From Brandon Robison:
I am so grateful to know this man and his lovely wife. Both are wonderful examples to me of true followers of Jesus Christ. I will be ever grateful for what I have learned from both of them as a missionary. So grateful for the knowledge of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the assurance that we will all meet again. ¡Les amo Presidente y Hermana!
From Brett and Kandace Durfee:
I loved this dear man from the time I was a young teenager. I remember his words of wisdom from numerous talks and a very special patriarchal blessing he gave my husband Brett. He is still fondly quoted and remembered in our home and even though he is no longer present here, i have no doubt he is watching and waiting with love Our hearts are with the family he was a great man
From Denny and Jan Davis:
Eileen and family,
We share our love and condolences with you in the temporary parting of a most wonderful giant of a man. Walt was with me from my early days being a single, returned missionary, as he served on the High Council. He has stayed by my side through over 45 years of learning and service. Walt and Eileen were true fans and encouraged me especially in my service in the Church and even my attempts as an actor, strengthening my testimony every time we met together, no matter the circumstance. He had a true testimony of the Savior. I loved Walt and look forward to being taught by him again, for we will all embrace as neighbors and "fellow citizens with the saints" forever. Thank you Walt and Eileen for your love and support for me and my family all these years. Love, Denny, Jan, Jared and Temperance Davis
From Diane & Kai Hintze:
We love Walter and Eileen Petersen so much. We served together in El Salvador. We learned so much from your examples.
From Greg and Vicki Rasmussen:
What a privilege to know Pres. Petersen and you, Eileen, and your children. He delivered four of our six children and treated our family at his office many times throughout the years. He was kind and gentle, always treating us like a dear friend. We are so grateful that mortal death is not the end. It is with joy and anticipation that you and we will meet this great man again at some future date.
From Ralph and Jamie Rasmussen:
We love Walt and Eileen. Serving with him was a great pleasure and blessing. His example continues to enlighten us. Best wishes and condolences to the entire family.
From Jan Manning:
At times like this, family means everything. Support one another and know that Dr, Peterson helped many, many people and they are all praying for you right now.
From Brent Nielson :
Walt is my hero. He was my Bishop, doctor, mentor and friend. I am so grateful for the influence he had on me and my family. He will be sorely missed. The Nielson’s send our love to Eileen and all the Petersen children and grandchildren as you celebrate a life well lived. Prayers are on the way.
From Susan N Swann:
Walt was my Bishop and Eileen took me to girls' camp. Just before my dad Norman Nielson died, Walt found our family a baby girl to adopt. It's because of him that I have her. I love you, Dr. Walt. Eileen, I pray you find comfort in the knowledge that your family is forever.
From Beverly Lallman:
I loved him. Our condolences to family.
From Sharon Jeppson:
Walt and Eileen were such great examples to me of how to put God first in your life. They are examples of hard work, caring heart and never ending service to God and Jesus Christ and His church. I'm sure he was greeted with loving arms and words of approval of his life here on this earth. Love and condolences Eileen and their family.
From Jeff Taylor:
The Taylors enjoyed our friendship with your family. We treasure the memories we shared. Please accept our sympathies.
From janet hess henry:
My favorite doctor and bishop all at the same time. I’ve thought him many times over the years and the house calls to our home. He treated the body and the soul.
From Rosemary Hoggan:
Walt was family Doctor and friend and beloved by all who knew him. He will be greatly missed.
From Richard & Ann Smith:
We are so sorry for your loss we love him so very much ! You will be in our prayers !