Peterson, Torkel 1817 - 1899

PETERSON, KNUTSON

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 8/5/2021 at 20:31:25

Elkader Register, Thur., 14 Sept. 1899.

On Sunday morning, September 3d, 1899, after an illness of about six months occurred the death of Torkel Peterson, of Wagner twp. The subject of this sketch was born in Norway, Feb. 11th, 1817, and at the time of his death he had reached the ripe old age of 82 years, 6 months and 22 days. He grew to manhood in Norway and worked at different things, chief of which was peddling and trading. This work he kept up until 1849, when he left his native country to try his fortune in the United States. After a voyage of 11 weeks in a sailing vessel he reached America and came to Rock Prairie, Wis., where he made his home for about one year, after which he made a trip into Iowa, traveled around for a while and finally settled in Wagner twp., on a large farm where he has since resided and which is now owned by his son, Peter T. Peterson. In 1852 he was married to Miss Gunhild Knutson. This union was blessed with a family of eight children, one son dying (in) infancy. Mrs. Peterson died April 13th, 1866 . He leaves two sons and five daughters to mourn his death.

Mr. Peterson was a quiet and peaceful man and enjoyed a wide acquaintance and was respected by all who knew him. A kind and indulgent father and husband, his children will always remember him as the best friend and admirer they ever had. He lived long enough to see his seven children each provided with a good home of their own. He had his share of pioneer life in this county and he worked and toiled to get a living for himself and family and succeeded very well. At the time he retired as a farmer he was one of the well-to-do farmers of Wagner twp.

The funeral took place Tuesday forenoon, Rev. Haugen, of Decorah, conducted the services at the Norwegian Lutheran church after which the remains were consigned to their last resting place in the Norwegian Lutheran cemetery adjoining the church. A large number of relatives and friends were in attendance at the funeral to pay their last respects to a departed friend and relative. An entire community will extend their sympathy to the afflicted family in their loss of a kind father and indulgent friend. May his soul rest in peace.