Claude William Peterson

Claude William Peterson, 89, of Menifee, California, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on October 19, 2025. Claude was born in Clearwater, Kansas, to Willard and Katherine Peterson on July 23, 1936. His father Willard passed away from a heart attack when Claude was only eight years old in 1945. He was one of nine siblings and three half siblings. He attended school in Clearwater where he graduated from Clearwater High School in 1954.

Claude met Carolyn June Wood at church in Wichita. They were married on Carolyn's birthday on October 23, 1965. A few years later they welcomed two children, Torri and Patrick.

Claude spent his entire career working for the Abbott Laboratories and Air Products corporations in chemical production.

Claude and his family attended Metropolitan Baptist Church in Wichita where he and Carolyn were members for 45 years. Claude taught Sunday school and served as an usher and a deacon. After moving from Wichita to San Jacinto, California, in 2009 to be near their children, he and Carolyn attended First Baptist Church where they happily served others both in the church and in the community sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ.

For some years after retirement, while still in Kansas, Claude and Carolyn worked with Campers on Mission, a ministry composed of Christian campers and RVers who serve the Lord by traveling to various locations assisting at children's and youth camps, church construction assignments, and sharing Jesus Christ through outreach in the community.

Claude loved spending time with friends and family. His favorite hobbies were gardening and reading, and he tried his best to never miss a televised University of Kansas basketball game. Claude was a kind and meek soul, a hard worker, and a good and loyal friend to all who knew him. He was a loving husband and father, a caring son and brother.

Claude was preceded in death just two weeks before by his wife Carolyn of nearly 60 years; his son Patrick Peterson; his parents Willard and Katherine Peterson; sisters Lucille Seamster, Nelda Croft, Phyllis Cheatum, Faye Dressor, Elva Arlene Peterson (infant), Velma Overeem, and half-sister Mary Moore; brothers, Marcene Peterson, Raymond Peterson, and half-brothers Alvin Peterson and Harold Peterson.

Claude is survived by his daughter Torri Nolte (Eric), grandchildren Rachel Nolte, Jessica Garcia (Dylan), and Michael Peterson.

A Celebration of Life for both Claude and Carolyn will be held on Friday, December 12th, 2025, at 11:00 am, at First Baptist Church, 861 E. Evans, San Jacinto, CA 92583, with Pastor Stacy Johnson officiating.