Obituary: Lonnie Peterson

Lonnie Eugene Peterson, 54, of Cloquet passed away on July 24, 2024, at Community Memorial Hospital in Cloquet. He was born Aug. 31, 1969, to Edward and Patricia (Adelsgruber) Peterson. He lived with his family in Cromwell.

Early in his life, Lonnie was blessed with the programs at Pinewood Inc. that made it possible for him to attend school. He later had the opportunity to work in the housekeeping department at Black Bear Casino Resort as well as the kitchen at Perkins, which he truly enjoyed.

In his later years, he was blessed with his second family at the Pine Ridge group homes. He loved taking trips with his group home family and never turned down a chance to go shopping. He was also passionate about the Special Olympics and treasured the ribbons he earned playing poly hockey and participating in other events. Sports brought him so much joy over the years whether it was fishing with his loved ones, going bowling, watching WWE wrestling and testing out some moves, or receiving hats and T-shirts in support of the most recent Super Bowl champions.

Above all, Lonnie loved his family and looked forward to the time they spent together. They will always remember his “I love you” at the end of every phone call.

Lonnie is survived by his sister, Linda (Mark) Demenge; nieces and nephews, Dean (Lyssa) Goranson, Danelle (Devin) Fredrickson, and Dusty Demenge; dedicated guardian, Roberta Bartczak; the family at Pine Ridge; and extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; special dad, Ray Pirila; and brother, Larry Peterson.

No public services will be held. Inurnment will be held at Forest Hill Cemetery in Cromwell. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Lonnie’s memory are encouraged to support the Special Olympics. Arrangements by Nelson Funeral Care in Cloquet.

Pine Knot News, Aug. 2, 2024