William Anton Peterson was born in Tucson on September 22, 1961. He was followed 6 minutes later by his brother and best friend, Wesley. He died of natural causes in Mesa on October 21, 2026. William grew up in Oakdale California in a home in the country that created a childhood of adventure. William graduated from Oakdale High School in 1979. He graduated from BYU 1985 and BYU Law School in 1988. He served a mission in Oklahoma for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, he had a testimony of Christ and the Plan of Salvation.
William spent his career as a public defender and mentored many young attorneys. He was very recently appointed a Judge Pro Tem in the Superior Court. William was usually the smartest man in any room, yet he was humble enough to not let you know. William was a big man, it was required because he had the biggest heart. He was generous beyond description, he loved to surprise family with elaborate gifts. He loved classic rock, helping anyone, Hawaii, Vegas, London, movies, friends, and mostly he loved his family. He was a beloved son to Pete and Peggy, and a beloved brother to Karla, Wesley, and Carrie. He was a legend as an Uncle. He was Uncle Bud to Hayley, Kaytie, Karly, and Ally. He loved his nieces fiercely and they loved him just as much.
He was preceded in death by his parents, we know there was a joyous reunion in heaven. He is survived by his sister Karla, his brother Wesley (wife Sally and daughters Hayley and Ally), his sister Carrie (her daughters Kaytie and Karly).
He is leaving broken hearts, but hearts filled with gratitude and love for who he was. William’s memory will forever be a blessing.
Services will be held at Greenwood Memory Lawn Cemetery located at 719 27th Ave, Phoenix, in the Serenity Chapel on Thursday October 29th. Chapel will open at 10:30 for friends, Service at 11:00, Burial with family at 1:00.
