Norma Peterson

A. Norma Peterson, age 85, died at her home in Paso Robles, California on Friday, October 17, 2014. Born November 8, 1928 in Hanford, Calif., to Major Dee and Viva Alice Williams O'Dell she moved to Atascadero as a small child. In 1947, she married Elwood Peterson. They were happily married for 49 years. She was best known for working at Baeker's Pharmacy for 15 years. She and Elwood retired in the 1980's to RV around America and to travel the world. Norma will be especially remembered for her love of her family and her home. Friends and family enjoyed many wonderful gatherings where her food and hospitality were center stage. Survivors include her son, Stan and his wife Jill Peterson of Atascadero; her granddaughter, Carlye Peterson of Santa Barbara and her grandson, Terry Peterson of Arcata; her sister, Sharon Ward of Atascadero and her brother Tom O'Dell and wife Texie of Nevada; her sisters-in-law, Alice O'Dell and Moneata O'Dell, both of Atascadero and Nicky and James Henderson of Woodlake, California. Norma was preceded in death by her husband, Elwood Peterson in 1996; her son, Tim in 1971 and her brothers: Charles, Rex, and Jack O'Dell. She will be missed by many nieces, nephews and friends. Memorial services will be held, on her birthday, November 8, 2014 at 1:00pm at the ABC Church of Atascadero, 6225 Atascadero Mall, Atascadero, Calif., 93422. Relatives and friends are welcome to a gathering on site after the services. Memorial contributions are welcome at Wilshire Hospice, 277 South Street, Suite R, San Luis Obispo, Calif., 93401 and the American Cancer Society. Thanks to Velma, Cheryl, Sue and Bernette for their help and support. Afterglow I'd like the memory of me To be a happy one. I'd like to leave an afterglow Of smiles When life is done. I'd like to leave an echo whispering Softly down the ways. Of happy times and laughing times And bright sunny days. I'd like the tears of those who grieve, To dry before the sun Of happy memories that I leave When life is done. ~Helen Lowrie Marshall~