Roland Leslie Peterson was born on July 8, 1928. He was delivered into this world by his Grandma Sundstrom in a home built when his family joined other Swedish immigrants in the area of Ferndale known as “Swede Hill” during the early 1900s. Early childhood activities included playing with his older siblings, Ainsley and Corinne, as they grew up on the family farm with their parents, Dan and Tilda Peterson.
During his elementary years in the Ferndale schools he met a cute little girl named Audrey McConnaughey, whom he married after he graduated from Ferndale High School in 1946. During his high school years Roland participated in baseball and basketball as well as music activities.
While attending college at Western, Roland became a member of the college men’s vocal quartet. He continued to enjoy music throughout his life. After graduating from Western he began his teaching career at the North Bellingham School. Roland was an educator and friend to many kids and families during his 30 years as a teacher and administrator for the Ferndale School District.
The Ferndale Kiwanis Club became a focus of his life for many years as he worked to support club efforts promoting community activities to help children “one child at a time.” He was an original charter member of the club.
Roland and Audrey raised three children during their 68 years of marriage: Lynn (Ross) Boice, Ron Peterson and Carin (Kelly) Brown. All three of their children raised their families in Whatcom County, providing opportunities for memorable family events over the years. These families enjoyed fishing trips to British Columbia during the summer. Often they celebrated birthdays and other special holidays at local beaches including Birch Bay.
Roland and Audrey’s grandchildren include Tatum Brown, Brita (Parker) Castleberry, Kevin Brown, Ole (Letti) Peterson, Rhonda Hawkins (deceased), Ashley (Phil) Price, Roseann (Justin) Morgan. Great-grandchildren include Xander, Jace, Bibi, Olivia, Celisse, Isabelle, Rylan, Titus, Whitney and Wade, who always provided reasons to love life and smile!
During the last months of his life, Roland’s declining health and memory did not diminish his love of family and friends. He maintained his sense of humor and a twinkle in his eye until the end.
His family acknowledges the love and compassion shown by the folks at Whatcom Hospice House during his last days. Roland left this world for his next adventure on Monday, Oct. 17, 2016. Although his physical presence will be missed by many, we believe he continues to live within the memories and personalities of those whose lives were touched by him.
A celebration of Roland’s life is planned for 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20, 2016 at the B. P. Heron Center at Birch Bay State Park. Please join family members and friends as we pay tribute to a wonderful man who, on a scale of 1-10, scored at least a 12! In fact, you are invited to wear a Seattle Seahawks 12 shirt as we share memories and enjoy refreshments together.
(If you choose not to support the state park by paying the required parking fee, family members will provide a “free ride” service from the nearby public parking area to the celebration event on state park property.)
