James F. Petersen

Heaven took our hero, James F. Petersen, a loving husband, gentle father, fun loving grandfather and everyone’s best friend. James was born on June 18 of 1944 to Bill and Lola (Graham) Petersen. He was the youngest of three boys. He was a beloved 81-year-old resident of Denison, Iowa. Jim passed away peacefully on April 21, 2026. He was proceeded in death by his parents and brothers, Robert (Sharron) and Billy (Marlene).

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Karen Petersen of Denison; three daughters, Jody (Mike) of Denison, Dawn (Denny) of Carroll, and Ann of Denison; grandchildren, Alex (Ammon), Kaci (Chris), Jordan, Nikki, Kelsey (Carter), Jami, and Andrew; and three great-grandchildren with two on the way.

Jim treasured time spent with family above all else. He enjoyed bowling, fishing, building violins, and any woodworking projects he could find as well as Friday night at the races.

Whether sharing stories, lending a helping hand, or simply being present, his steady kindness touched all who knew him.

A private graveside interment will take place at a later date.

Jim will be missed beyond measure, but the love he gave so freely will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He’s taken a quiet road beyond our sight,

Where the waters are still and the sky is always light.

No more burdens, no more pain to bear-

Just peace that lingers everywhere.

With steady hands and a faithful heart,

He lived for others from the very start.

And though he’s gone from where we stand,

He’s only gone to a gentler land.

At home he found his greatest grace,

In each familiar, loving face.

A husband’s bond, so strong and rare,

A father’s pride, a grandpa’s care.

And now he’s called to heaven above,

Surrounded by eternal love.

With Jesus there, in perfect peace,

Where all of life’s trials finally cease.

Perhaps he’s casting a line once more, On heaven’s calm and endless shore, Or building with care, as he used to do, Shaping something strong and true.

Though we remain and feel the space,

We carry him in every place.

For in our hearts, his light will stay—

A guiding strength, each passing day.

He rests where joy will never end,

With his Savior, Father, and friend.

And though we miss him every day,

In our hearts, he’ll always stay.