Charles M. Peterson
Charles Melville Peterson, 83, died at 8:38 p.m. Friday, August 27 at Lutheran Life Villages in Kendallville. He was born in Decatur to Cal F. and Edna L. (Neukom) Peterson. He married Violet Elaine Boice, she preceded him in death on July 25, 2008.
“Pete†as he was known to friends, began life from humble origins. After his World War II Navy Service, he worked in the construction industry. In 1966 he became part owner of GMC Construction in Fort Wayne. He was also a farmer with property in Hoagland.
He was a graduate of Decatur High School and attended Mt. Hope Church of the Nazarene in rural Berne, and was a member of the American Legion Post #43 of Decatur.
He was raised by a blind mother. This remarkable woman’s zest for life and work ethic seemed to rub off on him, and his siblings.
He loved work and excelled at household projects. His strong work ethic and the support of his extended family, partners, and friends, enriched all those around him. He built and lived his “dream.†He had a long and fruitful life that serves as inspiration to all those who had the benefit of knowing him. He was 83 years young and will be remembered. His twinkling eyes and gentle smile will be sorely missed.
He is survived by his daughter Dee Ann Pierson of Holland, Michigan, son, John C. (Linda) Peterson of Ozona, Florida, grandchildren; Sara, Rachel, Adam, Nicholas, James and Michael, two great-grandchildren, Emily Mae and Caden; a brother, Cal M. Peterson of Fort Wayne; and sister-in-law, Susan Peterson.
He was preceded in death by a son, Charles Michael Peterson; a granddaughter, Lisa Peterson and three brothers; Don, Ralph and Karl Richard Peterson.
Visitation is Monday, August 30 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Zwick and Jahn Funeral Home in Decatur and one hour prior to the 10 a.m. service on Tuesday, August 31 at the funeral home. Pastor Wayne Steury will officiate. Burial will be in the M.R.E. Cemetery in Berne.
Memorials may be made to Mt. Hope Nazarene Church.
