Paul Edward Peterson

Paul Edward Peterson, age 73, of St. Paul, Minnesota, passed into the arms of our Lord on Saturday, January 11, 2025.

Paul was born on May 13, 1951, to Paulus Peterson and Ellen(nee Glommen) Peterson) Johnson in Traverse City, Michigan. Paul was baptized and confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Traverse City. He graduated from Traverse City High School.

Following high school, Paul enlisted in the United States Army. He proudly served from 1970-1980, serving in the National Security Agency, including two tours in Germany. He was honorably discharged in 1980.

After his service in the Army, he moved to St. Paul, Minnesota, where he met Marsha Hartjen. They married January 3, 1981, at North Heights Lutheran Church. They were greatly blessed with one child, Joseph Charles, born September 23, 1986. Although Paul and Marsha's marriage ended in 2022, they remained close friends.

Paul loved to tell stories of growing up with his family and friends. There were stories of a chicken and a dog, trying to run away from home, telling his Mom how he broke his thumb, Thanksgiving dinner with the Pastor, and more.

Paul will be remembered for his kind and gentle soul, a good man with a huge heart of gold. He was a big teddy bear with comforting, reassuring hugs. He loved watching many movies, but a good comedy was his favorite. Paul had an infectious belly laugh.

Paul is survived by his brother, Mark, whom he loved deeply and admired; his sister-in law, Mary; Marsha (Hartjen) Peterson (his soul-mate of 43 years); aunts, uncles, nieces, cousins, many other relatives, friends and Army buddies.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paulus Peterson and Ellen Johnson; stepfather, Charlie Johnson; sister Nathalie Ensrud; brother Einer Peterson and his wife Carolyn; sister, Jeannie Peterson; and son, Joseph Peterson.

There will be a Memorial Service at Abiding Savior Lutheran Church, 8211 Red Oak Drive, Mounds View, MN 55112 on March 3, 2025, at 11:00, preceded by a visitation at 10:00 and a luncheon following the service. Paul will be laid to rest at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, St. Paul, MN on May 13, 2025 (on his birthday) at 2:00. All are welcome to participate in one or both events.

We sincerely appreciate the cards, thoughts, and prayers we've received. Memorials may be given to Abiding Savior Lutheran Church or the charity of one's choice.