Frank Edward PETERSEN

PETERSON, WILSON, PINA

Posted By: Sarah Thorson Little (email)
Date: 1/20/2008 at 14:13:16

Bozeman Daily Chronicle, (MT)
March 16, 2004

December 22, 1949 - March 11, 2004

Frank Edward Petersen passed away Thursday, March 11, 2004, ending his 30-year battle with post-traumatic stress and depression. Frank was born Dec. 22, 1949, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, to Eddie and Merline Petersen. He spent his childhood years in Durant, Iowa, and Escondido, Calif., and graduated from Molalla High School in 1968. He attended Palomar College in California, and was then asked to serve his country, being drafted into the Army in 1969. Frank served in Vietnam until 1971, having been awarded the Purple Heart for being wounded in action. Frank spent much of his post-war life in Idaho, working for the Idaho Department of Transportation as a mechanic and in law enforcement. Frank worked his best to support his four children as they grew.

In 1994, Frank came to Big Sky to visit his sister, Gloria Wilson, and her husband, Rod. Frank immediately fell in love with the area, and his skills as a mechanic, carpenter and handyman became a valuable asset on the maintenance crew at Lone Mountain Ranch. He was a talented artist and enjoyed watercolor and chalk. Pencil sketch drawings of people and landscapes were his specialty. He also enjoyed outdoor activities such as cross-country skiing, hiking and prospecting for gold. Frank will always be remembered as a kind, sensitive and generous individual who would go out of his way to help a friend in need. He was also known for his fun-loving personality and charm. His many talents and attributes will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his children, Morris and wife, Melinda, and Roger and wife, Eva; sisters, Virginia Pina and husband, Horace, Gloria and husband, Rod Wilson, and Mary and husband, Gordon Greif; and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorial services will be held Saturday, March 20, in Goldfield, Iowa, and Wednesday, March 31, in Big Sky. Cremation or Funeral Gallery is in charge of arrangements.