Wayne Peterson

Wayne Darryl Peterson was born October 4, 1946, in Murray, Utah, to Cleone (Jensen) and Max Darrell Peterson. He passed away on July 4, 2025, in Whitehall, Montana.

Wayne was raised an "Air Force Brat" lived in dozens of states, plus 3 countries. He attended the University of Idaho (UI) and then enlisted in the Navy. Served as a communications technician in Kamiseya, Japan in the late 60's. Wayne came back to the UI and received a bachelor's in economics. He moved cross-country to Washington DC and was an Economist with US Department of Labor. Where he worked on computers and became a Microsoft Certified System Engineer and Trainer. He left the Government and became a private contractor. Then Wayne worked at the National Institute of Health (NIH) in Maryland.

Wayne met Patricia Toland while working at the US Department of Labor. They got married on January 25, 1986. Wayne and Pat were blessed with two wonderful sons, Eric (Gracie Robinson) and Scott. Wayne often said that "being a dad was the best job" he ever had. Wayne and Pat were foster parents for several years and were active in Neighborhood Watch. Wayne was a Cub Scout and Boy Scout leader. He cheered for his sons in their athletic efforts.

In August of 2000, the family moved from Virginia to Rochester, New York. Wayne continued to work as a computer specialist until he went to work for the Postal Service. Wayne and Pat retired in July 2014 and decided to head West to return to Wayne's roots. They moved to Whitehall in May 2015. Whitehall felt like home from the start. Wayne became involved in the Whitehall Rotary Club, serving as president and coordinating the aluminum recycling program.

Wayne is survived by his beloved wife Pat Peterson; his sons, Eric Peterson (Gracie), Scott Peterson; his brother Richard Peterson; and his sister Pamela Tuttle (Kevin). He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, aunt, uncle, cousins, and family friends.

He is proceeded in death by his parents.

A Memorial service will be held on July 17, 2025, at 11:00am in the Chapel at K and L Mortuaries, 109 West 2nd Street, Whitehall, Montana 59759. Following services a luncheon will be held at St. Theresa's Catholic Church Hall.

The family would like to thank the Veterans Administrations, and The Jefferson Valley Ambulance Service for their care and compassion over the last few months.