Tony Peterson

Kent "Tony" Peterson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2026, at the age of 79, surrounded by his loving wife, son, and daughter. After enduring years of pain, he is now at peace and pain-free for eternity.

Tony was born on August 1, 1947, in Oak Park, Illinois, to Kenneth and Lorraine Peterson. Raised in a loving family, he learned the value of hard work at an early age while helping in the family business, Peterson Barrel Company in Chicago. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Valparaiso University, where he was a proud member of the Phi Sigma Epsilon fraternity. He went on to build a successful career as an insurance claims adjuster and financial planner, earning the respect and trust of colleagues and clients through his honesty, integrity, and genuine concern for others.

Tony is survived by his devoted wife, Linda Peterson; his son, Brian Peterson; his daughter, Suzi Emmerson, and son-in-law, Jason Emmerson; and his cherished grandson, Parker Emmerson. He is also survived by his brother, Bruce Peterson and wife Lynne; his sister, Julanne Peterson; his brother-in-law, Gary Buhman and wife Pam; his nephew, Christopher Peterson and wife Julie; his niece, Kelly Jackson; and his nephew, Scott Buhman and wife Vickie, as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Lorraine Peterson; his brother, Keith Peterson; his nephew, Matthew Peterson; and his niece Kelly’s husband, Joe Jackson.

On the greatest journey of his life, Tony met and married the love of his life, Linda Peterson, after being introduced on a blind date. Together, they shared 58 beautiful years of marriage, filled with love, laughter, cherished traditions, and countless adventures. Their life together took them from Indiana to Arizona and, most recently, Colorado, creating cherished moments and traditions that will live on through their family and loved ones.Tony’s devotion to Linda was evident in all that he did, the pedestal he always put her on, and the words he lovingly signed on every card and letter: “Forever and always, yours alone.” Their enduring love was an inspiration to everyone who knew them, and the life they built together was truly one of love, commitment, and treasured memories.

Family was the center of Tony's world. He found immense joy in spending time with those he loved and took particular pride in watching his grandson, Parker, play sports, especially soccer. His happiest times were often the simplest: being together with loved ones over holidays, spoiling his family at Christmas and watching them open gifts one at a time, a day at the lake, a Sunday drive, teaching his grandson how to play poker, playing cards, and creating lasting memories together. Tony will be remembered most for his unwavering devotion to his family, his infectious smile, his Christmas party mix tradition, his love of cars, and his countless stories.

Tony embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. He was an avid fan of golf, never missed the excitement of March Madness, and especially enjoyed watching his beloved University of Arizona Wildcats. He was a lifelong Indianapolis 500 enthusiast, loved boating, and had a special passion for automobiles, owning as many as 56 cars throughout his marriage. Having grown up in a family that raised Great Danes, Tony carried a lifelong love of animals and pets.

Known for his constant positivity, outgoing personality, and kind heart, Tony was a true gentleman in every sense of the word. He had a warm smile that could brighten any room and a gift for making others feel welcome and valued. His optimism, generosity, and genuine love for people left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to:

Rocky Mountain Great Dane Rescue, Inc https://my.cheddarup.com/c/rmgdri/items or

Golden Retriever Rescue of the Rockies

Gifts In Memory/Honor Of | Golden Retriever Rescue

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing that Tony is finally at peace and free from pain. The love, laughter, kindness, and joy he shared will live on through his family and all those whose lives he touched. His memory will remain in the stories we tell, the traditions we carry on, and the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Visitation/Viewing will be held at Olinger Andrews Caldwell Gibson Chapel, Evergreen Room, 407 Jerry Street, Castle Rock, CO, on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 1:00 pm, followed by a Funeral Service at the same location on August 29, 2026, at 2:00 pm.