Marjorie Jean Petersen

Marjorie—known to many as Margie—was born to Ralph and Grace (MacElroy) Beatty. She was the fourth of five children and is survived by one sister, Carolyn Rugh. Margie graduated from Langley High School in Sheridan, Pennsylvania.

In 1954, Margie met Dietrich “Pete” Petersen at a church outing while he was a student at Millikin University. Their relationship grew through a devoted correspondence of letters, and they were married on her 21st birthday, August 27, 1955. Together, Margie and Pete welcomed four children: Erich, Kurt, Krista, and Heidi.

Throughout their years together, Margie and her family moved across the United States as opportunities arose throughout Pete’s career. In each new place, Margie’s steady faith and resilient spirit helped her create a loving home—one marked by selfless care, quiet strength, and a generosity that made others feel welcomed and supported. She remained active in her community and in church wherever she lived, offering her time and presence in ways that uplifted those around her.

Margie loved to sing and sang in her church choir wherever she lived. She also enjoyed playing bridge with friends, and her ability to connect with others came naturally. In later years, she followed golf and especially loved watching tournaments on television.

Margie is survived by her children: sons, Erich Petersen and Kurt (Cathy) Petersen; daughters: Krista (Vernon) Pendergast and Heidi Burks; grandchildren: Erica (Josh) McDuff, Cory (Josh) Dyer, Katie (Chris) Knill, Molly (Evan) Olsen, Christian Cordoba, Reagan Pendergast, and Claire Burks; and great grandchildren: Addison and Hudson McDuff, Kenadie, Lillian, and Harrison Dyer, Christopher and Madeline Knill; and sister, Carolyn Rugh.

Margie was preceded in passing by her loving husband, Dietrich “Pete” Petersen. Her life will be remembered with gratitude—for the example she set, the devotion she gave, and the enduring warmth she brought to family, friends, and community.

A funeral service for Margie will occur on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Valley of the Sun Mortuary and Cemetery in the Chapel Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Margie may be made to Hospice of the Valley of Arizona.