Obituary of Edith Elaine Peterson
Edith “Elaine” Peterson
Age 100, of Richfield, MN, passed away Jan. 26, 2022. Preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Everett.
Elaine grew up during the depression in Wilson, Michigan, where her father was a cheese maker. Although money was tight, her generous spirit was instilled early on. She remembered the hobos who would stop off in their little town, knowing there would be a handout left by her mom. Elaine’s generosity continued throughout her life. She volunteered for various activities at church and in the community wherever she lived.
Elaine was academically strong in school, skipping a grade and continuing on to college at Northern State Teacher’s College in Marquette, Michigan, at a time when few women pursued higher education. She met Everett while in college and later graduated with a four-year degree. She went on to teach home economics in Powers, Michigan for a few years. During World War II Elaine also filled in teaching classes in English and Chemistry. Elaine valued education throughout her life, providing funding to help her children and grandchildren pursue college.
After the war, Everett and Elaine were married in 1945 and moved from Marquette to Richfield, Minnesota in 1955. In the early 1960’s Everett spent a year in India for work. After a year apart, Elaine flew to India via Paris alone on her first airplane trip. Their love of travel continued throughout life as they boarded planes with friends to see Panama, the Amazon, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and more.
Once her children were in school she worked in a variety of jobs and eventually retired from the City of Richfield. Elaine enjoyed weekends at their home on Lake Francis in Minnesota, winters in Texas, and hosting family gatherings and holidays. She found joy in cooking, gardening and connecting with friends over a card game or a lively square dance. She was an accomplished seamstress, making many of her own and her daughters’ clothes.
Elaine is survived by daughters Linda Lang (Fred Hoffman) and Carol Crumley (Timothy); grandchildren Meghan Sandberg (Joshua), Daniel Lang (Jessica), and Kjerstin Lang (Jeffrey Bye); and great-grandchildren Jocelyn, Daniel, Ilah, Clara and Ivan.
A special thank you to the wonderful staff at The Pines whose kindness and support allowed Elaine to feel at home for nearly 16 years. The family will hold a private memorial at a later time. Donations preferred to Dementia Society of America.
