Walter Petersen Jr.'s Obituary
Walter “Wally” Petersen Jr. of Saxeville (Long Lake) Waushara County since 1972. Born September 8, 1935 in Waukegan, IL, Wally held various advertising & marketing positions during his career (Norge Appliance, Johnson Outboards, Kiekhaefer Mercury Marine, Rupp, Arctic Cat, J I Case, Harley Davidson, Eisner Advertising, SNC Mfg) in addition to owning and operating a dry cleaner/laundromat in Waukegan, IL for 20 years. In 1956, he married the love of his life, Patricia, and together they raised a family and built a welcoming home atop a hill on Long Lake. Their most important accomplishments are two daughters, Cindy Belovsky (Kevin) and Wendy Vincent (Chad) and their six grandchildren: Velarie (Michael) Pech, Alexander Belovsky; Patrick, Sara, Madison, Jackson Vincent.
Wally was a longtime automobile and motorcycle enthusiast. He was part of the early drag racing scene, competing (and winning) in the Modified Roadster class and setting a speed record at the 1957 NHRA National Championships. He cofounded the Piece Arrow Society, was managing editor of Drag Times publication, and served on the minibike committee of the Motorcycle Industry Council. He also prided himself on being engaged in local government and his community; he served as a Supervisor & Chairman of Town of Saxeville, served on various Waushara County boards, was a Winnefox Library trustee, was a member East Central Regional Planning Commission, and was a founding board member of the Long Lake Association. Other community involvements included the Fond du Lac Jaycee Club, Wild Rose Lions Club, Gulf Shore Elks Club, Century 100 Toppers Hot Rod Club of Kenosha and Derby’s Hot Rod Club of Waukegan.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 33 years, Patricia; sister Deborah Thorpe (Lyle) Mi, MN; brother Paul (Vicki) Petersen of Rome, GA; parents Walter & Bernice Petersen, Waukegan, IL.
He entered God’s Kingdom after a long struggle with MDS (Myelodysplastic Syndrome)
Wally had wonderful care from the doctors and nurses at Theda Care in Waupaca. Donations to the Wild Rose Lions Club or your local blood center.
The Holly Funeral Home of Waupaca is assisting the family with arrangements.
Please join us for a Celebration of Wally’s Life on Saturday, March 18th at St. John’s Lutheran Church ELCA in Saxeville, Wi. Visitation starting at 10am, Service at 11 am, with a light lunch to follow, please bring your happy memories to share.
What’s your fondest memory of Walter?
What’s a lesson you learned from Walter?
Share a story where Walter's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Walter you’ll never forget.
How did Walter make you smile?