Esther Lorraine Peterson

Esther Lorraine Peterson was born September 12, 1928 to Julius and Bertha Woods Wikoren in rural Worth County, Iowa. She was raised on the family farm until age 11 when they relocated to Northwood, IA. She moved to Albert Lea in 1968. Esther had a wonderful sense of humor, she loved to cook, play cards and visit with her many friends and family. She was employed at Land-O-Lakes for 25 years. After retiring she became a very active volunteer for Shady Oaks. She enjoyed helping other tenants with transportation, grocery shopping, running errands, and sometimes just visiting. Esther moved to St. John's Lutheran Home in 1994. There she spent many happy hours preparing food in her room for family, staff, residents and friends. The aroma when she was cooking permeated throughout the halls and never failed to bring visitors to her door. Esther also greatly enjoyed gardening and had her own special garden spot at St. John's. Survivors include her sons Arden Renae Peterson of Albert Lea, Gordon Peterson of St. Paul, MN; daughters, Linda Sanden and Bonnie Todd Thompson both of Albert Lea; daughter-in-law Sharon Peterson of Mason City, IA; 16 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-grandchild; brother Howard Wikoren of Indiana; sisters Julaine "Jay" Nessett of Albert Lea, Alice Jim Anderson of New Ulm, Betty Duane Erickson of California, and Delores "Dee" Richard Matson of Missouri and brother-in-law Don Horning. Esther was preceded in death by her parents Julius and Bertha; daughter Gloria VonHagen; son Dennis Peterson; brother James in infancy; sisters Margaret and Esther in infancy; Ruby Melvin Hansen, Mavis Horning, Stella Jerry Jensen; and brother-in-law Art Nessett. Esther will be sadly missed by her family and friends.