Tommy N. Peterson

Norman Tommy Peterson, a lifelong resident, farmer, and rancher of Devils Lake, ND passed away on Monday, May 14, 2018 at the family homestead on Creel Bay. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, father-in-law, and friend.

Tommy was born to Norman and Francis (Lynch) Peterson on May 6, 1938. He and his older sister Geraldine grew up on his parents’ farm on the shores of Devils Lake and he attended Devils Lake High School. Tommy was united in marriage with Myrna (Altringer) Peterson on April 4,1959 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church.

Tommy and Myrna were married for 59 years and made their home on land that Tommy purchased in 1958 on Sweetwater Lake. Over the years, they raised livestock that included dairy and beef cattle, hogs, chickens, and, of course, horses. Tommy shared his love of horses and farming not only with his four children and grandchildren, but also the broader community. As a leader in the Ramsey Riders 4-H Club, Tommy worked to develop citizenship, leadership, and life skills in Ramsey County youth. Over his lifetime, he assisted in setting up two different 4-H arenas for the county. Together with their family, Tommy and Myrna also enjoyed participating in the Fort Totten Trails, Inc., including once traveling 100 miles on horseback in one trail ride.

Tommy was an active member of Ramsey County, serving as a committee member for the Federal Housing Administration, the Creel Township Board, and as a charter member of the Creel Township Planning and Zoning Board. Tommy was also a founding member of the Lake Region Curling Club and participated in the Elks Lodge, Eagles, ND Stockman’s Association, ND Farm Bureau, ND Farmers Union, and various bowling leagues.

Tommy had a close relationship with his family. He loved following his children and grandchildren’s participation in rodeo and horse shows, as well as sporting events, particularly Devils Lake hockey. He enjoyed traveling with his family, particularly a 2005 trip to France and Spain with his wife, children, and grandchildren and a 2011 trip to Alaska with his son and son-in-law. Each day, he looked forward to having coffee with old and new friends.

Tommy is survived by his beloved wife Myrna and his children Patricia Rime (Tom), Kathleen Seitzer (Joe), Mark Peterson (Kristel), and Elizabeth Black (Terry); sixteen grandchildren Erica Lee (David), Jocelyn Rafferty, Jessica Bradish (Bob), Ryan Rafferty, Kelsey Peterson, Josef Rolak, Paul Rime, Patrick Rime, Amanda Seitzer, Carly Braathen (Jesse), Jacob Seitzer, Elizabeth Rime, Craig Peterson, Elle Black, Molly Black, and Charly Black; five great-grandchildren Aaron and Zachary Lee, Michael and Taylor Bradish, Riley Schmiess, and Kenzo Rafferty. He is also survived by his sister, Geraldine Boatman, as well as cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Funeral Services for Tommy will be held on Friday, May 18, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Olaf Lutheran Church, Devils Lake with Reverend Jim Paulson officiating. Burial will be in the Devils Lake Cemetery. 

Visitation on Thursday, May 17^th will be held at the Gilbertson Funeral Home, Devils Lake from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with a Prayer Service at 7:00 p.m.  Visitation on Friday will be at the church one hour prior to the funeral service.