Obituary of Gladys Marilyn Peterson

Gladys Marilyn Peterson passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on June 28th, 2023, at the age of 101. Gladys was preceded in death by her husband Robert, siblings Allen and Violet Parsons, son-in-law Thomas Harrold, and grandson Steven Campen. Gladys is lovingly remembered by her children Bruce (Joan), Dennis (Janice), Marilyn Harrold, Robert (Nancy), Kevin (Lori), and Mark (Kathleen), grandchildren Kim Campen, Dan (Britta), Jean (Paul) Noss, Brent (Stacey) Harrold, Megan (Brian) Ritchie, Brett, Karen (Jared) Jordal, Julie, Andy (Kim), Nick (Emilie), Bill (Mandy), Joseph (Emily), Nathan (Chandra), Kellen (Jackie) Perry, and Kailene Perry. Gladys is also survived by 32 great grandchildren. Gladys was born on Aug 6th, 1921, in St. Paul. She graduated from Johnson High School and went on to nurses training at Bethesda Hospital. She married Bob at the start of WWII until his death in 2002. They lived in St. Paul, Gladstone, Lake Elmo, and Mahtomedi, before she moved to Oak Meadows in 2012. Gladys modeled a deep faith which now also shapes the lives of her children and grandchildren; she was an active member of St. Mark’s Lutheran church for more than 60 years. She was a devoted daughter, wife, mother and grandmother. A great joy in her life was caring for and enjoying her grandchildren. Her servant heart stood out in many ways. When her aging mother and mother-in-law were in nursing homes she visited and cared for them every day for almost 10 years. Whenever her children were hospitalized she’d stay overnight with them; and at the age of 80 she did the same when Bob was ill with cancer. Her hospitality was such that her kids routinely brought home college friends unannounced for meals or to spend the night or even for the holidays. She was an avid learner and enjoyed many hobbies especially ceramics, gardening, and golfing. A celebration of life will be held at St. Marks Lutheran Church in No. St. Paul on Friday, July 7th, 2023 at 11:00 with visitation 1 hour prior and luncheon afterwards. A family burial at Union Cemetery will follow. Memorials preferred to Oak Meadows, St Marks, or a charity of one’s choice. Special thanks to the staff at Oak Meadows and Health Partners Hospice.