Francis Peterson

  Francis Orlo “Pete” Peterson peacefully passed away in his sleep at home on Tuesday morning, Jan. 26, 2016, at 99 years old.
  He was born in Ferndale on Aug. 23, 1916, to Elbert and Jennie Peterson. He was one of eight children: Ellen, Rose, Jeanette, Amy, Wilfred, Donald and Owen. He was the last surviving brother.
  At age 47, Pete married his first wife, Helen Kennedy Schroeder, who soon passed, leaving him with his adopted sons: Kenneth, Robert, Donald and Stanley Schroeder. Years later, he wed Dorothy Stark Cline with four boys of her own, Ralph (deceased), Floyd, Gene and Dale Cline. The Peterson family leaves various nieces and nephews.
  Pete was a cook in the CCC camp near Mount Baker in 1932 and 1933. In 1940 through 1942 he was a chief cook in the United States Navy aboard the USS Spika. He retired from the Local Laborers’ Union in 1968. He had worked on the Baker Dam and Interstate 5.
  For about 69 years he was a charter member of the Custer VFW. The Nooksack Christian Fellowship (Nooksack Advent Christian Church) was his church home. He was a loved and active member for over 48 years. He was also active in the Everson Senior Center for nine years, having served as the president for three years.
  His family still called him Orlo, local friends all called him Pete. He believed in Jesus Christ, living out his faith by doing good to all. He never knew a stranger, as he welcomed all he met into his life and home. He will be missed by everyone who knew him.
  There will be a graveside service on Monday, Feb. 8, 2016, at 10:30 a.m. in Green-acres including a military salute by the Custer VFW. An informal reception will be held in Nooksack Christian Fellowship, 201 W. Jackson St., Nooksack, after the service around 11:30 a.m.
  No flowers, please. Please donate to your favorite charity or the clothing ministry at his church, Nooksack Christian Fellowship.
  Please sign the Book of Memories, light a candle and leave your condolences for the family at www.JernsFH.com.