Obituary of KATHLEEN MARY PETERSON

Mrs. Kathleen Mary Peterson (Walsh), of Avon, MN, passed away suddenly on Monday, January 11, 2016 at the age of 69. Kathy was born on December 24, 1946 to Leonard and Mary (Garrigan) Walsh in St. Paul, MN. She was raised in Highland Park, but lived in Stacy, North St. Paul, Afton and Avon, MN throughout her life. She attended St. Joseph’s Academy and graduated in 1965. She then went on to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) after earning her Associates Degree at St. Catherine University. Kathy was a caregiver at heart and by trade. She raised two loving sons and worked as a nurse at the St. Paul’s Monastery for many years. After she retired she provided home health care to patients with Alzheimer's. While she excelled at taking care of the elderly, she always put friends and family first. One of Kathy’s strongest traits was listening. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She loved watching her sons and grandchildren play sports throughout the years. She had a great sense of humor and was always laughing. She knew how to make everyone in her family feel loved and special. Kathy is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Paul Peterson; her sons, Wally (Taya) Peterson and Rick (Stacey Carlson) Peterson; three grandchildren, Olivia, Charley and McKenzey Peterson; brothers-in-law, Lynn (Maggie) Peterson and Pete Peterson; sisters-in-law: Jeanne (Wayne) Dunbar, Vonnie (Jim) McLeod, Diane Zollman and Lorraine Walsh. Kathy is preceded in death by her parents; brother, James (Pete) Walsh; brothers-in-law, Walter Peterson and Bill Zollman and sister-in-law, Cindy Peterson. Kathy was the soft landing from a tough day and a bright light on the gloomiest of days. She will be missed in our hearts forever more. A celebration of Kathy’s life will take place Friday, January 22nd from 5-8 pm. All that would like to honor Kathy’s life are welcome. Cremation Society of Minnesota-Brooklyn Park Chapel 7835 Brooklyn Blvd Brooklyn Park, MN 55445