William Peterson

William Peterson, a kind and patient man who listened to children and looked for ways to serve others, died at home on December 24, 2015. A life-long learner and scientific thinker, Bill was also quiet, wise, and nonjudgmental, greeting loved ones by throwing his arms up wide in joy. Bill was born and spent much of his life in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was married to his Calvin College sweetheart, Elsie, for 63 years. Bill served three years as a communications officer in the U.S. Navy and then earned a Ph.D. from the University of Michigan. He taught Economics at the University of Illinois and Grand Valley State University. He was among the early faculty at GVSU, where he taught for nearly 25 years, serving several years as department head. In retirement Bill and Elsie lived in Glen Arbor, MI. Bill loved nature and outdoor recreation: camping, hiking, cross-country skiing, and especially sailing. Those who knew Bill miss his thoughtful conversation, his warmth and humor, his consistent desire to be helpful, and his willingness and ability to fix almost anything. When in his later years dementia stripped away some layers of competence and intellect, his sweet appreciative core shone forth. He reveled in the beauty of every moment. Bill always asked that if he were to lose the ability to care for himself, he would like us to tie his hand to the tiller of his sailboat and push it off to sea. Instead of sailing off alone, he died surrounded by his loved ones. He was the oldest child of William and Bertha ((DeKorne) Peterson and brother to Rich, Nancy (Crater), and Glen Peterson. Bill is survived by his wife Elsie Stonehouse Peterson, his children Ginny (Jonathan Burr) Peterson, Rob (Joanne Jewell) Peterson, Betsy Peterson, and daughter-in-law Mary Willey, along with 8 granddaughters Alice, Abigail, Casie, Marlee, Isabel, Mira, Vanessa, and Rose. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Bertha Peterson, and his son Chuck Peterson. Those who wish to give gifts in Bill's memory might consider donations to the Chuck Peterson Memorial Film and Video Endowed Scholarship at Grand Valley State University or to hospice. There will be two celebrations of Bill's life. The first will be held at Glen Lake Community Church in Burdickville, MI on Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 2:00 PM. The second celebration of Bill's life will be held 10:00 AM Saturday, January 16, 2016 at Stegenga Funeral Chapel - Belmont, 1601 Post Dr. NE and open house visitation following. To share a photo, memory and sign the family's online guest book please visit www.stegengafuneralchapel.com. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of William Allen Peterson please visit our Sympathy Store.