2/2/1936 - 12/3/2020
Tom was born on February 2nd, 1936 in a blizzard on the farm in Chisago County, MN to John Rudolph “Rudy” Peterson and Arlene Peterson. He received his degree in business from St. Cloud Teachers college (now St. Cloud State University) in 1957. On March 15, 1958, he married the love of his life, Sue Elaine Henrikson. They raised a daughter, Beth, and two sons, Brian and Craig. They also helped raise and support seven loving grandchildren: John, Maxwell, Luke, Kathryn, Matthew, Jack and Charlie.
He served on active duty for the USAF during the Cuban missile crisis. After his return from service, he continued his work for Lutheran Brotherhood. He became an independent insurance agent soon after, and his career brought his family from Minneapolis to Dallas, Corsicana, and finally, Austin, Texas. For the last 6 years, he worked for Generational Equity. His natural ability to connect with people made him an excellent salesman, and he was a mentor to everyone in the company, including his boss!
He was an active member of the religious community and served on church councils of several Lutheran and Episcopal congregations throughout his life. He was a delegate to the constituting convention of the ELCA in 1982.
Those who didn’t know him as Tom knew him as “Grandpa.” He was generous with his time and attention. He was a kind and gentle man with a quick wit and unsurpassed comedic timing. He treated everyone like family. He was a friend to all and made people feel special and important. His grandkids were his world. Sue and Tom attended every band concert, every tournament, every game, every meet, anything involving their grandchildren. He had so much pride in each of them and supported them all unconditionally. He lived his life with love, grace, gratitude.
Tom is preceded in death by his parents, and his sister Sarah Anderson. He is survived by his wife, Sue, his sisters, Grace Prokasky and Lois Falk, as well as all of his children and grandchildren.
Visitation: December 11th 6pm-8pm Weed Corley Fish 411 Ranch Rd 620 S, Lakeway TX. Service: Saturday December 12th 2pm, Ascension Lutheran Church, 6420 Hart Ln, Austin TX Virtual: https://fb.me/e/7VPCb4mcK
In lieu of gifts, please consider a contribution to Mas Mariposas Chispa de Vida http://mariposaspanishschool.com/donate/ or the Bread for All Food Pantry (send checks to Abiding Love LC 7210 Brush Country ATX 78749)
