PETERSON, Wanda Isabella

The Arizona Republic, Phoenix, Arizona Sunday, March 2, 2003 Wanda Isabella Peterson was born in Vienna, Missouri on July 28, 1923 to William Preston and Martha Elizabeth Walker. She passed away February 22, 2003 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Wanda grew up in Belle, Missouri and moved to St. Louis after she graduated from high school. It was in St. Louis that she met her future husband, Lt. Leonard (Pete) Peterson. They were married in 1943 and moved to Texas. Wanda was a devoted Air Force wife and mother to three sons. She was often both mom and dad to her boys as Pete was a career military man and served his country overseas during both WWII and the Korean War. They retired to Scottsdale in 1965. Wanda was preceded in death by her husband in November of 1998. She is survived by her three sons: James (Lola) Peterson, Tempe, AZ; John (Sherry) Peterson, Phoenix, AZ; and Bruce (Colleen) Peterson, Phoenix, AZ; four grandchildren, Eric (Brandy), Christine, Tim, and Katherine Peterson and one great grandchild, John Eric Peterson III. She is also survived by two sisters, Alvena LeGan of Wellsville, Missouri and Mildred Oestreich of Waupun, Wisconsin. There will be a private service at Arlington National Cemetery where Wanda will be buried with her husband. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix, Az., 85014. Arrangements by Messinger Indian School Mortuary. Courtesy of Pat Wilson.