Donald C. Peterson's Obituary
Donald Campbell Peterson January 30, 1920 - May 5, 2009. Donald was born to Charles E. and Beatrice Campbell Peterson in Tacoma, WA on January 30, 1920. He attended public schools in Tacoma and graduated from Stadium High School in 1937. He graduated from the College of Puget Sound in 1954. Donald enlisted in The Washington National Guard in 1936, and was called to active Federal Service in 1940. During WWII he served in many places including General Douglas MacArthur's HQ in Manila, P.I. He retired as a Full Colonel in 1971 after nearly 35 years of service, 25 of those years with the Selective Service System - a civilian Federal Agency. Donald became a Christian in 1946, and was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Tacoma for over 65 years. He was a Bible teacher and church officer for many years. He was active as a Christian serving on many committees and Boards of Directors. He was part of the organizing committee for the annual Pierce County Prayer Breakfast in 1979 and was secretary of he Tacoma Billy Graham Crusade in l983. Donald was preceded in death by his beloved wife of over 60 years, Margaret (Peggy) Stewart Peterson. He is survived by his wife of nearly 5 years, Ruth Peterson, and his 6 children: LuAnn (Rick) Roach of Sunnyside, WA, Nancy Scott of Olympia, WA, Donald (Chris) Peterson of Philomath, OR, David Peterson of Westfield Ctr., PA, and Kathy (Mark) Merrill of Edgewood, WA. He is also survived by 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Don will be missed greatly by his loving family and friends - his quiet strength and guidance led the family and others well over the years. A Memorial service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church of Tacoma on Sat., May 16, at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Missionary Fund of the First Presbyterian Church of Tacoma.
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