Muriel I. Peterson's Obituary
Muriel I. Peterson, age 91, passed away at home on Friday, February 9, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on July 14, 1932, to Charles and Mary Hastings Sr., in Petoskey, MI, but called Grand Haven home early in life. On September 14, 1955, she married the love of her life, Frederick “Fred” Peterson, and they settled in Spring Lake, into the home she helped him build. Together they cherished 60 years full of love and laughter, and they raised four children.
Muriel led a very active life. She enjoyed a long tenure with the Tri-Cities Historical Museum, both as a volunteer and staff member, most notably as the gift shop manager and buyer. She was nearly 80 when she retired. She also taught calligraphy and chaired her high school reunion committee. As an active member of Spring Lake Christian Reformed Church, she sang in the choir and spent 7 years as director of the junior choir. She was a gifted singer, and she sang in many small groups over the years. She had a real passion for music, but her greatest joy was spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. Muriel is survived by her children, Cindy (Mark) Bennington, Suzanne Peterson, Steven (Gail) Peterson and Lisa (Michael) Kendra; grandchildren, Ashley Bennington, Christian Bennington, Noelle Gray, Jenna Peterson, Alexa (Jairo) Godinez, Eryn Kendra, Nick (Holly) Kendra and Zack (Aniska) Kendra; great-grandchildren, Sebastian and Elliott Kendra; sister, Nola Newton-Kinnucan; brother-in-law, Wes (Agnes) DeWitt; dear friend and companion, Richard ”Dick” Edstrom; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. She will be truly missed by so many.
Muriel was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Fred; brothers, Charles “Chuck” Jr., George, Roy, Harry, and Bill; sister, Joy; brothers and sisters-in law, Owen and Irene Peterson, John Peterson and Mary Peterson Veurink, Helen DeWitt, Calvin Newton, and Jack Kinnucan. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, February 23,2024, at Spring Lake Christian Reformed Church, 364 S. Lake Ave., Spring Lake, MI 49456. A visitation with the family will be held from 9:30 – 11:00 AM at the church. Muriel will be laid to rest with her husband at Spring Lake Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Muriel’s honor can be directed to Harbor Hospice. Arrangements entrusted to The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 49456. Share memories with the family at http://www.sytsemafh.com.
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