Francis Peterson

COLUMBIA - Francis Kirk Peterson, Sr. 69, passed away peacefully Wednesday, March 12, 2014 surrounded by his loving family and animals. Kirk was born December 20, 1944 in Columbia, SC. He was the son and only child of the late Dr. and Mrs. F. Kirk Peterson.

A Memorial Service for Kirk will be held at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, March 15, 2014 at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home, Irmo/St.Andrews Chapel. Visitation with the family will be immediately after the service. Per Kirk’s wishes he ask that those attending dress casual.

Kirk was a graduate of Dreher High School and attended Wofford College on a track scholarship and University of South Carolina. He worked for Dun and Bradstreet, the Bureau of National Affairs for many years. He was the President/Owner of the Vision Care Group. Kirk enjoyed sports, especially tennis, and the annual July 4th “gathering” at their home with family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife; Linda; children, Margie Haskins (Gene), Frank Peterson, Jr. (Devery), Lyn Parrott Hibino (Bob), Billy Byars and Kim Byars Kiker (Neal). Cherished grandchildren include, Grant Haskins, Shae Haskins, Cullen Parrott, Rylyn Parrott and Mara Byars.

Kirk and Linda are devoted animal lovers and guardians. He leaves behind their beloved dogs, Niki, Mystery, Jack and Harley, Fred the squirrel and Martin the turtle.

In lieu of flowers, tax deductible donations may be given to Cotton Branch Animal Sanctuary, 507 Cotton Branch Rd. Leesville, SC 29070 or Carolina Wildlife, 5551 Bush River Rd. Columbia, SC 29212. Volunteers are desperately needed, especially men. Please help the animals in any capacity you can.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Dr. Stillwell and the 8th floor staff, Oncology Unit at Lexington Medical Center and caring friends.

“All creatures great and small, we alone can save them all.”