Elaine B. Peterson

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Peterson, Elaine B. Age 92, of Minneapolis, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2015. Elaine was born on January 18, 1923 in Kensington, MN, daughter of Elmer and Ruth Bjorklund. She was preceded in death by her husband Richard (Bud) Peterson, Minneapolis architect and legendary WWII fighter ace. Elaine ended all her wartime letters to Bud with the phrase "Hurry Home Honey", after which he named his famous P51 fighter plane. Elaine was also preceded in death by her daughter Jody (Clinton) Morrison, brother Earl in WWII, and sister Virginia (Ginny) Fadden. She is survived by her son Judd (Stephanie) Peterson of Eden Prairie, MN, granddaughters Sophie, Jenna, and Greta; daughter Licia (Michael) Conforti of Williamstown, MA, grandchildren Peter and Julia; and granddaughters Anna (Peter) Nelson and Calley Morrison. Elaine is survived by her sister Gloria Boynton, and many nieces and nephews. Bud and Elaine's early married years were spent in Europe and at home in Tirrenia, Italy, where many wonderful family memories were made, and still remain for all the children, especially of art and culture. On her return to the States, Elaine involved herself in a variety of endeavors in the business world, and put her creativity, compassion, and fair-minded spirit to work for Minneapolis through her involvement with several local organizations, including the WCA Foundation, the Woman's Club of Minneapolis, Friends of the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, and the Altar Guild at St. Paul's Episcopal Church. She also expanded her numerous creative talents through writing and sculpting - attending the renowned Writer's Workshop at the University of Iowa, at the age of 75, writing lifestyle/humor articles in the local Hill and Lake Press, and sending travel correspondence from internet cafes during a final return trip to Tirrenia, Italy at age 80, reuniting and conversing in Italian with local friends and revisiting the old seaside neighborhoods. Elaine was most beloved, however, for her gentle demeanor, fabulous humor, wit, and hilarious storytelling. She was much loved by her family and friends and will live on in the enduring memories she created for all who knew her. Special thanks to Woodland Hills Residence in Minnetonka, MN, and Elaine's caregivers: Tracy Huson, Etheria, Mwila, Annette, Bridgette, Shepri, and Teresa. She loved their wonderful companionship and heartfelt care. And more thanks to Park Nicollet Methodist Hospice Care for their comfort and support. A celebration of Elaine's life will be held Wed., Aug. 26th, at the Edina Chapel of Washburn-McReavy, 5000 W 50th & Hwy 100; with Visitation at 1 pm, Memorial Service at 2 pm, and a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the Minnetonka Center for the Arts and Northern Clay Center of Minneapolis. Washburn-McReavy.com Edina Chapel 952-920-3996

Published on August 16, 2015