Judith Mae Peterson

Judith Mae Peterson, born to Walter and Elverna Lederer in Ann Arbor, Michigan, on December 6, 1937, passed away peacefully March 26, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones. She graduated from Ann Arbor High School in 1955 before embarking on a rich and fulfilling journey.

In 1960, Judy married the love of her life, Philip Peterson, and together they shared countless cherished moments. Throughout her life, Judy wore many professional hats, serving as a secretary in various fields, delving into real estate and Mary Kay sales, and even conducting hearing testing. However, her most fulfilling role was as a secretary for the Michigan State University Pediatrics and Human Development Program, where she dedicated herself until her retirement.

An accomplished soprano, Judy's passion for music led her to perform with esteemed groups such as the University Lutheran Chorus, Ascension Lutheran Chorus, Lansing Lyric Opera Company, Ingham Festival Chorale and The Michigan State Choral Union. In her younger years, she sang "Sincerely" to local audiences in Ann Arbor as part of a teenage high school trio called The Tonettes. Beyond her professional and musical endeavors, Judy was a devoted fan of Michigan State sports, holding season tickets for football games. She found joy in participating in book clubs, indulging in reading, and engaging in various hobbies such as antiquing, rummage sales, and visiting farmers' markets. Her outgoing nature, generosity, and love for her family, church, and community were evident in all aspects of her life. Judy's warm spirit and nurturing presence extended beyond her immediate family, earning her the title of a second mom to her children's friends. She was an ambassador for Brookdale Assisted Living Center, where she embraced the opportunity to meet new people and share her infectious positivity. Judy’s biggest love was her three granddaughters with whom she mentored in music and shared mutual joy. Her love for animals, especially dogs, was profound and brought immense comfort and joy into her life.

Judy is survived by her sons, Steve (Karen) Peterson and Brad (Kimber) Peterson; granddaughters, Sharon "Beth" Peterson, Danielle Peterson, and Jillian Peterson; brothers, Gerald "Jerry" (Deanna) Lederer and Richard "Dick" (Kathleen) Lederer; brothers-in-law, Jim Colson and John (Wendy) Peterson; sister-in-law, Chris Cunningham; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Elverna Lederer; and her beloved husband, Philip Peterson.

In honoring Judy's memory, let us cherish the love, kindness, and joy she brought into our lives. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, April 5, 2024 from 4pm until 8pm at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes in East Lansing. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 6, 2024 at 11am, preceded by visitation beginning at 10am at Ascension Lutheran Church in East Lansing. Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yRfJ2lx0jcI. Judith's ashes will be interred on April 12, 2024 at Great Lakes National Cemetery, 4200 Belford Rd, in Holly, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ascension Lutheran Church, 2780 Haslett Rd., East Lansing, MI 48823 (https://www.kindridgiving.com/app/giving/ascensioneastlansing) or the MSU Choral Society. Make checks payable to: Michigan State University (Memo line: Judith Peterson for the MSU Choral Society), University Advancement, Spartan Way, 535 Chestnut Rd., Room 300, East Lansing, MI 48824 (https://givingto.msu.edu/gift/index.cfm?SID=625), and Love on a Leash, P.O. Box 4548 Oceanside, CA 92052-4548 (https://www.loveonaleash.org/donate/)