Curtis Peterson

Curtis "Pete" Peterson, a man who lived life on his own terms and filled it with adventure, laughter, loyalty, and unforgettable stories, passed away on April 30, 2026, surrounded by those who loved him. He was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Carl and Doris Peterson and grew up in Plymouth, Minnesota. He graduated from Hopkins High School before setting out to create a life that was anything but ordinary.

In his younger years, Pete ventured north to Alaska, living off the grid long before it became fashionable. That independent spirit would remain a defining characteristic throughout his life. Pete was never one to follow the crowd; he preferred blazing his own trail, making his own decisions, and embracing whatever adventure awaited around the next corner.

Pete dedicated much of his life to public service. He proudly served with the Golden Valley Fire Department from 1977 to 1987 while also working as a Security Officer for Honeywell from 1979 to 1995. His commitment to protecting others continued when he joined the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources as a Fire Spotter in 1998, a position he still held at the time of his passing. He also served as a Corrections Officer for Crow Wing County from 1999 to 2008 and later as a Court Bailiff, earning the respect of those who worked alongside him.

On December 12, 2012, Pete married the love of his life, Vickie, aboard the U.S.S. Riverside on the Colorado River in Laughlin, Nevada. The ceremony took place at exactly 12:00 p.m. Pete often joked that since the world was supposed to end on December 21, 2012, he wouldn't have to be married very long. As it turned out, the joke was on him, and together they shared many wonderful years and especially summers at Pete’s childhood cabin on Big Elbow lake, filled with love, laughter, and tears created countless memories. Vickie remains forever grateful for the loving and adventurous husband he was.

Pete's passions were as varied as his adventures. He loved flying, boating, snowmobiling, ATVs, electronics, gadgets, Harley-Davidsons, and Corvettes. One of his favorite traditions was his annual pilgrimage to Sturgis for the Motorcycle Rally, where he enjoyed the open road, good friends, and the freedom that came with both.

To know Pete was to know a man with stories that could fill a book. Many would leave you laughing until your sides hurt; others might make you shake your head. Pete could be outspoken, stubborn, and occasionally knew exactly how to get under someone's skin. Yet beneath that tough exterior was a deeply caring and generous man. Years ago, he selflessly donated a kidney to his brother Dale, a gift that reflected the depth of his love and loyalty. Pete cherished the close friends who became family over the years and treasured the special moments they shared. He also had a special place in his heart for his beloved dogs, and each loss left an emptiness that he carried deeply.

Pete was a private man, especially when it came to his health. Once he made a decision, those who knew him understood it was set firmly in stone. With heavy hearts, Vickie, their family, and his extended family of friends said goodbye on the afternoon of April 30, 2026, knowing he had endured enough suffering and was finally at peace.

Pete was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Doris Peterson, and his brother, Dale Peterson.

He is lovingly survived by his wife, Vickie Peterson; children Rawni and James Moses of Mission, Minnesota, Erek Hamilton of Pequot Lakes, Minnesota, and Benjamin Hamilton of Brainerd, Minnesota; grandchildren Kira and Eddie Binda of Brainerd, Minnesota; his brother, Reece Peterson and wife Barb; sister-in-law Lynette Peterson and Mike Blackburn; along with many dear friends who became family and will forever cherish the memories they shared with him.

Pete's life was marked by courage, adventure, humor, loyalty, and a fierce independence. Though his journey here has ended, the stories, laughter, and memories he leaves behind will continue to be shared for generations.

A Remembrance of Life gathering will be announced at a later date.