Jane Ann Peterson

Peterson, Jane Ann (nee Coad) age 89, passed on April 16, 2014. Preceded in death by her Mother, Father and three sisters. She is survived by a daughter, Karla (Kris Anderson) and son, Eric (Kathy) and grandson, Cory. Jane was a life-long volunteer. She began her volunteerism at the age of 14 when she, and her sister, June, kept score for blind bowlers at the former Uptown Bowl at Lake and Hennepin. When the polio epidemic spread in the 40's, she helped make puppets at Sister Kenny for the children in iron lungs. She was a 20-year- plus volunteer in the Minnetonka Public Schools and as many years for the Southshore Center. She was a Big Sister and a U.S.O. Hostess during WWII. Jane was an equestrian, fencer, golfer, public speaker, actress and hostess. She played cello and piano. She was a griot. Her timing made a simple story the best description you had ever heard. Jane was a wordsmith and raconteur. She often said she hoped there would be a chair for her at the Algonquin table so she could spar with Robert Benchley, Alexander Wolcott, George Kaufman, Groucho Marx, Dorothy Parker and the like. Many of you remember Jane as the City Clerk for over twenty years for the City of Excelsior. According to Jane's wishes, there will be a graveside service 10:30 AM Tuesday, April 22, Oak Hill Cemetery and a gathering for stories and food at Bayview Event Center at 12:00 PM. Memorials may be made to the Animal Humane Society, 845 Meadow Lane North, Golden Valley, MN 55433. Huber Funeral & Cremation Services Excelsior Chapel 952-474-9595 huberfunerals.com

Published on April 20, 2014