LARAMIE – Henry Peterson, beloved child of God, patriot, and devoted family man, passed away on November 26, 2024, at the age of 100. Born on July 19, 1924, in Laramie, to Swan Gottfried Peterson and Helga Fredricka Hoel Peterson Rosentretter, Henry’s life was a testament to faith, service, and love.
Following Pearl Harbor, Henry left 11th grade to serve as a Marine Raider during World War II. A man of courage, he was the third man to land on Japanese soil, led pivotal landings on Guam and Okinawa, and witnessed the Instrument of Surrender. For his bravery and injuries, he was awarded the Purple Heart.
After his honorable service, Henry met and married Ethelene Ruby Kunkel. Together, they shared nearly 62 years, raising a family rooted in faith and love. Henry worked as a Wyoming Highway Patrol officer, fireman captain in Laramie, and later head carpenter for Getty Oil in Medicine Bow. His talents extended to construction, owning two gas stations, and painting landscapes.
A lifelong member of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, Henry loved his Lord above all.
He is preceded in death by his parents; wife; sisters, Thelma (Eddie) Wetzler and Edna (Walter) Kunkel; daughter, Debra Albert; son-in-law, Richard Albert; and grandson, Bradley Albert.
He is survived by his son Robert (Jane) Peterson; daughter Linda (John) Beetle; grandchildren, Brian (Amanda) Peterson, Erin (Ben) Solomon, Amanda (Mike) Scott, Chis (Katherine) Beetle, and Brent (Jennifer) Albert; 9 great and 2 great-great grandchildren.
A visitation is at Montgomery-Stryker Funeral Home in Laramie on December 10, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. A graveside service with military honor will be held at Greenhill Cemetery in Laramie at 11:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church in Torrington.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23
