RICHARD A. PETERSON

Richard Arly Peterson, 59, Wasilla, died Aug. 6, 2005.

Visitation was held at Valley Funeral Home on Herning Avenue in Wasilla on Thursday, Aug. 11, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Funeral services followed at 7 p.m., with Chaplain Paul Everett presiding.

He was born June 17, 1946, in Duluth, Minn., to Signe and Lawrence Peterson. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1963 to 1967; he was very proud to serve his country. He moved his family to Alaska in 1982 and worked for ACS/ATU from 1981 until his retirement in 2002.

His family wrote, "He dearly loved working in the yard and playing his guitar for his family and friends. He will be truly missed by everyone who knew him."

He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Lola Peterson, and his four children, James Peterson of Anchorage, Lauren Peterson and his wife, Marge, of Arizona, Mark Peterson of Wasilla and Melanie Neuman and her husband, Shane, of Wasilla; sisters, Marylee Carlson, Peggy Pearson and Bettylou Barlass, all of Duluth, Minn.; eight grandchildren, D.J. and Daren Peterson of Anchorage, Maekayla, Mackenzie, Hunter, Haley and Kaitlin of Wasilla and Lauren Jr., of Arizona and two step-grandchildren, Barbara and Alex of Arizona.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Acct. #180413503 at any Key Bank location. Arrangements are with Valley Funeral Home & Crematory in Wasilla.