C. David Peterson

During his youth, Pop was a Boy Scout, attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. He attended Denfeld High School where he participated in swimming, tumbling, and football. Upon graduation, he traveled around the United States for a year, then returned to Duluth where he attended and graduated from the University of Minnesota in Duluth (UMD).

During his college and early life in Duluth, Pop worked as a lifeguard and was a drawbridge operator in the harbour area. After college, Pop worked as an accountant for a handful of companies including Erie Mining Company in Hoyt Lakes and Magnetic Controls (ADC Products) in Bloomington. Pop was not fond of his first name (our lips are sealed) and signed everything with first initial and full middle name. Friends and associates called him Dave or Pete.

Pop married Jeanne Stanco on July 26, 1952 and they were married for nearly 70 years until Ma's passing in 2022. As an only child, Pop wanted his family to be with multiple children, and the love of his life wanted the same. Together, they brought twelve children into our world!

Pop loved family get togethers. He would participate in whatever event might be happening in the backyard from shooting baskets and playing catch to playing bocce ball, croquet, and more. Pop had a wonderful sense of humor... during family sing-alongs around the organ at Christmas time, he would launch into a funny falsetto singing voice from his normal baritone voice while Ma played the organ and pretended to be annoyed. Pop taught us all how to enjoy life and have fun.

Pop is survived by all twelve of his children: Mike, Linda (Richard), Diane (Jeff), Mary (Randy), Joni (Eric), Dave, Steve, Jim (Patty), John, Tom (Sheri), Susie (Tony), and Joe (Gustavo); many beautiful grandchildren and great grandchildren; nieces and nephews; and many other friends.

To all of the doctors, nurses, and in-home caregivers who provided tender and loving care to Pop: You helped make his last few years comfortable and meaningful and we are forever thankful for your kind hearts and skills.

Pop was a heartfelt, kind, and gentle man who deeply loved his family. He taught all of us about love during his life. Thank you for everything, Pop! We love you! We miss you! Rest in peace with Ma!

A celebration of Pop's life will be held Sunday, March 22nd at Wulff Funeral Home, 1485 White Bear Ave in St. Paul, from 1-5pm. Family and friends are welcomed to share stories and memories.