Sgt. Walter R. Petersen

February 12, 1926 - May 1, 2019
Sgt. Walter R. Petersen

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Sgt. Walter Robert Petersen, age 93, of Hendersonville, NC and formerly of Watertown, NY died after an extended illness early Wednesday morning, May 1, 2019 at the Elizabeth House in Flat Rock, NC.
Mr. Petersen was born on Friday, February 12, 1926 to the Late Waldemar L. and Kirstine (Christensen) Petersen. He was a 1941 graduate of Nathaniel Hawthorne High School and Yonkers School of Commerce in 1944. He proudly served his country in the United States Army under the 12th armored division 43rd tank battalion, a company which during the time liberated Santos Thomas Internment Camp, Landsburg Prison and Dachau Concentration Camp. He was also in the 37th field artillery battalion in 1946 and the 7970th, CIC group in 1948, (counter intelligence.)
Mr. Petersen had many passions in life, such as Hell Cats Group in the military. He was a loving husband, father and friend and enjoyed bird watching and making beautiful bird houses. He would say to keep his mind sharp, “Do Sudoku every day along with reading.” He really loved family outings and was an avid artist and aviator.
He leaves behind to cherish is memory his three children, Walter Petersen and his wife, Debra of Hendersonville, NC, who were also his caregivers for the past 10 years, Barry Petersen of Watertown, NY and Wayne Petersen of El Cajon, CA. Other survivors include his five grandchildren, Tina, Bobby, Kirsten, Stacy, Jason and his wife, Paulina and nine great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his beloved son, Carl Petersen who was killed in Vietnam on January 5, 1969; his wife, Doris (Barrisford) Petersen and 11 brothers and sisters.
There will be a family gathering to celebrate Mr. Petersen’s life later on in June, 2019.
Memorial contributions may be offered on behalf of Mr. Petersen to the Elizabeth House, 581 South Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC, 28731.
Walt will be forever missed by his loving and devoted family and many friends.


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