Dennis Martin Peterson passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025, at the age of 85. A funeral service will be held at Ankeny Christian Church on November 26th, 2025, at 2:00pm. There will be a visitation held one hour prior to the service from 1:00 to 2:00pm.
Dennis was a graduate of East High School. Soon after high school, he began working for the United States Department of Agriculture as a draftsman. Dennis married the love of his life, Gerri Warner, and they went on to spend 64 beautiful years together.
Dennis then went on to serve in the United States Army for 18 months, leaving the service early only because the USDA needed him back for civilian work—a testament to his skill and value. He went on to spend 36 years as a draftsman for the USDA, where his precision, artistry, and work ethic earned him admiration and trust from colleagues through the years.
For 25 years, Dennis also worked part-time for a patent attorney, bringing his skills to yet another field where he made a lasting impact.
His dedication to his community was just as strong. At Longfellow Elementary, Dennis volunteered in countless ways—teaching children to read, helping parents learn to read, even dressing up as Clifford the Big Red Dog. But it didn't just stop there; he was in the hallways greeting the kids, found instrument donations for the band room, he would chaperone field trips, and so many other things. His generosity, enthusiasm, and heart earned him the Des Moines Education Association Volunteer of the Year Award for his service in the Des Moines public schools, but what mattered most to him were the relationships he built and the people he helped.
Family was the center of Dennis’s world. He loved spending time with his son, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was a committed presence at every game and activity. He hated missing a single sports event, and he rarely did. His message was clear: he would always be there. No matter the time, place, or circumstance, Dennis showed up.
As a gifted artist his entire life, Dennis expressed himself through drawing, building, and creating. His love of speed and craftsmanship carried into his hobbies: racing, go karts, hot rods, even going as far as building the cars and go karts himself.
He loved church, loved singing, and especially loved being part of choirs. Music moved him, and “Amazing Grace” held a special place in his heart.
What truly set Dennis apart, though, was the way he made others feel. He was a natural mentor—kind, compassionate, and patient. He talked with anyone and everyone, never judging, always listening. His conversations were heartfelt, thoughtful, and often exactly what someone needed in their hardest and darkest moments. He was a good talker, but an even better listener, offering understanding, guidance, comfort, and humor for someone who just needed to talk.
He is survived by his wife, Gerri Peterson; his sister, Deb Smith; and his half-brother, Bill Leech. Dennis is also survived by his son, Steve Peterson (Sherri Peterson); his grandchildren, Austin Peterson Sr. (Brittany Peterson), TJ Peterson (Kelsey Peterson), and Rondi Ballard (Ben Ballard); and his 8 beloved great-grandchildren, Austin Peterson Jr., Colton Peterson, Elias Peterson, Pearl Peterson, Emmy Peterson, Addy Ballard, Aubrey Ballard, and Mike Ballard.
He was preceded in death by his father, Harold Peterson, and his mother, Doris (Christenson) Peterson.
