Allen "Curly," Wilmer Peterson

CORNWELL, FLATTEN, FRANCK, GIBBS, HERSOM, KENNETT, LEIBOLD, MANN, MCGRAW, PETERSON, RYKMAN, SCOTT

Posted By: Cindy (email)
Date: 6/8/2026 at 22:27:45

Allen "Curly," Wilmer Peterson, 93, a man whose life was defined by his dedicated faith, relentless work ethic, and profound dedication to his family, passed away on Friday, June 5, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born on May 28, 1933, in Houston, Minnesota, Allen was the son of Freddie E. and Gena (Flatten) Peterson. After graduating from Houston High School in 1951, he proudly answered the call to serve his country in the United States Army.

Through mutual friends at work, Allen was introduced to Mary "Ramona" Franck. A beautiful friendship quickly blossomed into a lifelong romance, and the two were united in marriage on August 25, 1956, at the First Lutheran Church in Waterloo. A few years later, Allen and Ramona purchased a farm near La Porte City, Iowa, where they put down roots and built a life rich in love, labor, and cherished memories with their family.

Allen believed deeply in the value of hard work. Throughout his life, he was a dedicated laborer, providing for his family through his employment with companies such as John Deere and Rath Packing. However, his true passion was always found in the soil of the farm. He was a passionate farmer who cultivated not only the land but also a massive, bountiful garden that he generously shared with others. Allen had a true servant's heart; he was extremely helpful, never hesitating to jump in and lend a hand to anyone in need. His quiet strength and compassionate spirit were anchored by his deep, unwavering faith in Christ.

Left to honor his memory, his loving daughter-in-law, Brenda Peterson, three cherished grandchildren: Wendy (Stephen) Gibbs, Stephanie (Steve) Leibold, and Mickey Peterson; 15 beloved great-grandchildren: Kale (Jaden Hoskins) Hersom, Elleigh (Mitchell) McGraw, Carley Hersom, Lily Hersom, Brittany Rykman, Brianna Kennett, Mitchell Gibbs, Marshall Gibbs, Madison (Rusty) Cornwell, Mason Scott, Max Scott, Stella Leibold, Kerstin (Connor Thorpe) Peterson, Kylee Peterson, and Kennedy Peterson; as well as 20 precious great-great-grandchildren.

Allen is reunited in Heaven with his beloved wife of nearly 69 years, Ramona, who passed away on February 1, 2025; his dear son, Harlan Peterson; his parents, Freddie and Gena Peterson; his sister, Genevia Mann; his brother, Lynden Peterson; and his great-great-grandson, Beckett Gibbs.

A Visitation honoring Allen will be Wednesday, June 10th, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Reiff Family Center - Funeral Home & Crematory in Independence, IA.

Funeral Service for Allen Thursday, June 11th, at 10:30 AM at the American Lutheran Church in La Porte City, IA. Burial Quasqueton Cemetery in Quasqueton, IA, following the service.