Big Lake – Allan Peterson, formerly of Plummer, left this world peacefully after suffering from frontal lobe dementia on August 13, 2023 at Cherrywood Nursing Home in Big Lake.
Allan was born on December 28, 1949 in Little Fork, to Leonard and Mildred (Johnson) Peterson. Following Mildred’s death when Allan was 6 months old, the family moved to Plummer.
Allan attended Plummer High School, graduating in 1967, where he participated in football and basketball. He was loved by all who knew him for his big smile and caring nature.
Following graduation Allan enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1967. He served in the Dental Corps in San Diego, Great Lakes, IL and aboard an Aircraft Carrier off the coast of Vietnam. He received his honorable discharge in 1972.
After his discharge he held several jobs around the Plummer and Thief River Falls area before moving to Minneapolis. In Minneapolis he joined his step-brother, Bob Engesether, in home and commercial painting for many years.
In 1974 Allan and Gladeen were married. Together they had two children, Stacy (Jason) Flippen and Scott Peterson. His grandchildren: Brandon, Amber, Alyssa, Aubrey, Veronica and Jeffery were his pride and joy. He adored and loved spending as much time as possible with them.
Al’s favorite past time was scuba diving which he became very proficient at, becoming certified as a master diver. Along with his soulmate, Mary, Al traveled to many places enjoying diving activities.
Mary became Allan’s faithful companion and supporter for many years, caring for him as his dementia slowly overtook his life. After entering Cherrywood, Mary continued to be by his side faithfully until the end. Al’s family is very thankful for the concern and care she provided for him.
Left to mourn his passing are: daughter, Stacey (Jason); son, Scott; six grandchildren; sister, Lorna Jesme; brother, Milt (Janice) Peterson; many nieces and nephews; and Mary, the love of his life; step-siblings, LeRoy and Bob (Chris) Engesether and Sharon (Todd) Riggles.
Preceding Allan in death: his father and mother; sister, Janet; paternal and maternal grandparents; brothers-in-law, Russ Huotari, Duane Torkelson and Merle Jesme; step-mother, Bernice Lafayette; many aunts and uncles; step-siblings, June Versdahl, Gerald and Marvin (Judy) Engesether.
Thanks and appreciation for the wonderful care and compassion shown by the staff at the Cherrywood Nursing home in Big Lake.
A Celebration of Al’s life will be held at a later date.
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