Wayne Philip Peterson, age 68 of Emerald, died unexpectedly Friday, October 29, 2021 at his home.  

He was born June 25, 1953 in Stillwater, MN to John and Betty (Reeves) Peterson, the third of nine children. He graduated from New Richmond High School in 1971 and from UWRF with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1983.

He worked 24 years for Lakeside Foods in New Richmond doing plant maintenance before eventually retiring in August 2012.

He enjoyed providing a helping hand when asked but he also greatly valued his solitude. He enjoyed traveling, swimming at the New Richmond Center, scuba diving, trading stocks, spending time on his computer, and managing his extensive VHS and DVD collections.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Neal Peterson.

He is survived by his siblings, Carol Peterson, John (Judi) Peterson, Sue (Phil) Lidstrom, Glen (Coleen) Peterson, Paul (Cheryl) Peterson, Dan Peterson, and Tom (Laura) Peterson; and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held in the summer of 2022 as well as interment in Saint Patrick’s Cemetery, Erin Prairie.

Wayne sponsored numerous international children over many years and memorials may be directed to like organizations of your choosing.