Donald Ray Peterson, 83, of West Salem, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 1, 2024 at his residence surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on February 2, 1941 in Mount Carmel, IL the son of Harry and Marjorie (Walters) Peterson. Donald married Harriet Calvin on September 8,1963 and together they have enjoyed sixty years of marriage.
Don graduated from Mount Carmel High School Class of 1959. Following high school, Don earned his associates degree from Fairfield Community College. He faithfully served his Country in the United States Army where he served during Vietnam. Don worked at Champion Labs in Albion & West Salem for thirty-eight years before his retirement in 2009. He will be missed by his family and all who knew him.
He will be remembered by his loving wife, Harriet Peterson of West Salem; son, Tracey Peterson of West Salem; sister, Linda Russo of Punta Gorda, FL; nephew, Chris (Sandy) Russo of Bokeelia, FL; brothers-in-law, Rudy Calvin of Bellmont, Vincent Calvin of Seattle, WA, and Darryl Calvin Ft. Walton Beach, FL; sister-in-law, Cheryl Calvin (Richard) Mitchell of Mount Carmel.
Don was preceded in death by his parents.
A Graveside Service with Full Military Honors will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, September 9, 2024 at Highland Memorial Cemetery with Pastor Vaughn Courter officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made in Don’s memory to Hope Pregnancy Center. Envelopes will be at the cemetery or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.
Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Don’s tribute wall, and leave condolences for the Peterson family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com
