Dick W. Petersen

Dick William Petersen was born May 13, 1948 in Racine, Wisconsin to Harry and Ruth Petersen.  He was the youngest of four children. He spent a few of his younger years in Livermore, California. Returning to the Racine area when he was 10 years old.  He became a survivor during these young years due to the death of his father.  He strived to excel in all he did. Starting work at the IGA in Union Grove, when he was 13. He continued there until graduating from Union Grove HS.  He then started working at In-Sinkerator in Racine.

On May 20, 1972 he married Judy Fliess.  They had two children Jen and Mac.  In 1976 they moved to their current home in Vernon County. He started driving truck for Sloan's in Viroqua and finished his career at Fleming Foods in La Crosse. He and Travis then started PA's Taxidermy and Meats in Chaseburg, Wi. They processed venison, and both became professional taxidermists. Unfortunately, they were shut down due to the floods. Dick officially retired. He continued to smoke jerky for family and friends, his was the absolute best. He and Judy bought a winter home in Alamo, Texas. They were able to enjoy five wonderful winters there. Prior they traveled in the motor home, often with family, to many National Parks. He was able to build the shed of his dreams and equip it with the tools for fixing and repairing vehicles. He took great pride in helping his family and friends with vehicle repair and tire changing.  Once he learned You Tube, he could repair almost everything, not just vehicles.  He is definitely a selfless, caring man and treasured his friend ships.

On April 18, 2023 Dick lost the only challenge he couldn't beat. On February 15, 2023, he officially received his diagnosis of DIFFUSE LARGE B CELL LYMPHOMA, which had already metastasized to his brain. For his family, he did take chemo, receiving two different types. They helped to clear his mind and relieve his body pain, but his body could not compete with the side effects.  He decided to go home on Hospice March 27,2023.

He is survived by Judy, Jen and Travis Anderson, Mac Petersen, Connor, Hunter and Colton Anderson. He is best little pal Walter. He is also survived by two sisters, many loving in-laws, nieces, nephews and mother-in-law.

Dick is preceded by his parents, brother, father-in-law, two brothers in law.

The family wants to thank the wonderful caregivers on sixth floor hem/onc at Gundersen. Gundersen Hospice personnel were awesome and thank you Stephanie Lee for being with us at the end.  Your compassion is so appreciated.

51 years wasn't enough!  Love you forever! Jude

A visitation will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. Tuesday April 25, 2023 at the Seland Funeral Home in Coon Valley. Condolences may be given at selandsfuneralhome.com.

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