Brian Leslie Peterson, age 67 of Ellsworth, passed away unexpectedly on November 20, 2018 at his home. Brian was born April 20, 1951 in Red Wing, MN to Victor and Eleanor (Nelson) Peterson. He graduated from Ellsworth High School, the Class of 1969. Brian furthered his education at the University of Wisconsin – Stout, obtaining a bachelor’s degree. Brian proudly served his country in the United States Army in Vietnam. Brian was united in marriage to Ellen Weiler on July 23, 1977. Their marriage, although later dissolved, was blessed with a son, Anthony, and a daughter, Lindy. On September 27, 2014, Brian married Brenda Strom.

Brian loved cars, especially classic cars, and worked as an auto mechanic for Merit Chevrolet. He also had a great passion for flying and aviation, obtaining his private and commercial pilot’s license (VFR and IFR) and inspections license. He thoroughly enjoyed his job as an airframe and powerplant mechanic for Northwest Airlines, Red Wing Aeroplane Company, and most recently Blue Airways. He also found great interest in history through books and movies.

Brian is survived by his wife, Brenda Peterson; son, Anthony (Allison) Peterson; daughter, Lindy (Mike) Schulenberg; grandson, Dayton Peterson; mother, Eleanor Peterson; siblings: Glenn (Rose) Peterson, Gayle Richardson, Bruce (Loretta) Peterson, Joan Kasboski, Gerald (Holly) Peterson, and Karen (Terry) Dietzler; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Victor Peterson.

A Memorial Service honoring Brian’s life will be held 2:00 pm Monday, November 26, 2018 at the O’Connell-Benedict Family Funeral Home, 130 North Grant St., Ellsworth, WI 54011. A gathering of Family and Friends will begin at 12:00 noon at the funeral home. A private interment with military rites honoring Brian’s service to his country will take place at Sabylund Lutheran Cemetery in Stockholm, WI. Memorials are preferred to the discretion of his family.

Funeral services are entrusted to the O’Connell-Benedict Family Funeral Home of Ellsworth, WI. (715) 273-4421