Kenneth Le Roy Petersen's Obituary
Mr. Kenneth Le Roy “Gootz” Petersen, age 95, passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2025 at his home in Muskegon, Michigan. He was born in Muskegon on November 4, 1929 to Bendick and Oral (Lake) Petersen and was a lifelong resident of the area. On September 4, 1948, Ken married the former Joyce E. Block in Muskegon, and she preceded him in death on November 12, 2012. Gootz dedicated 39 years of hard work to Teledyne Continental Motors, but his heart always belonged to the water. A lifelong commercial fisherman on Lake Michigan, he proudly passed the trade down to his sons. Nothing brought him more joy than fishing alongside his boys and watching them unload the catch of the day. He loved traveling through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, sharing stories and laughs with fellow fishermen. A true collector at heart, Gootz found joy in collecting cars, old boat engines, and fish tugs. His simple pleasures included enjoying a chicken dinner, Fig Newtons, or a scoop of ice cream. Gootz also cherished the quiet companionship of his buddy, Fred the cat. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, love for the water, and a deep bond with family and tradition. Ken is survived by his three sons, Bill (Nancy) Petersen, Alan (Cheryl) Petersen, and Chris (Joanie) Petersen; two grandsons, Eric (Amber) Petersen and Joel (Meggen) Petersen; two great-granddaughters, Anna and Erin; and always a part of the family, Ingrid Hutchins. In addition to his wife, Joyce, Ken was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Dawn Joy; his parents; brothers, Richard, Clare, Ellsworth Arden, and James; sister, Pauline; and grandson, Bendick Petersen. According to his wishes, no services will be held. Burial will be in Lakeside Cemetery. You may sign his online guestbook at https://www.sytsemafh.com Arrangements by The Walburn Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 1547 W. Sherman Blvd., Muskegon, MI 49441.
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