The Sutton News 11/30/1917
Saronville-Mr. John Peter Peterson was born in Grangarde Congregation, Fahln Province, Sweden, Dec. 9, 1848, and passed away at his home in Saronville, Nebr., Nov. 23, 1917 at the age of 68 years, 11 months and 16 days. He emigrated to America in 1869 and settled near Wataga, Ill. where he remained till 1880, when he came to Saronville. He was joined in Holy Wedlock to Miss Martha Johnson on March 8, 1875 at Waulage. This union was blessed with 12 children, 9 daughters and 3 sons, all of whom survive the father and were present at the funeral. Six daughters are married and 2 sons. There are 18 grandchildren. The children are as follows: Mrs. Elmer Aspegren, Mrs. Carl Nelson, Mrs Edmund Aspegren, Mrs. Ed England, Mrs. Ed Johnson, Mrs. George Rodelius Evanston, Ill., and Esther, Nettie and Ethel; Wendell, Eddie and Roy.
Those who feel the loss most keenly are the widow and children. He has one brother in North Dakota who was unable to be present at the funeral.
Mr. Peterson was converted and joined the Swedish M. E. church in Wautaga and was transferred to the Saronville church 1880 to which he remained a loyal member until God saw fit to take him to Himself. His place in church was never vacant if he was able to be there. He served the church in different capacities, being trustee and recording steward and treasurer of the Congregation. He was always interested in both the temporal and spiritual welfare of the church and its people. He was also interested in the welfare of the town and served as treasurer of the school board. He was a kind husband and loving father and good citizen.
At two o'clock a short service was held at the home and at 2:30 at the home. Many beautiful floral emblems were sent by friends and family. The church was decorated with black and white drapery, potted flowers and ferns. Rev. Munson had charge of the services. Rev. Malmstrom who was Mr. Peterson's paster for 5 years spoke words of comfort to the bereaved family. Rev. Gustof Erickson, Dist. Supt. addressed the Congregation in english. Some beautiful music was rendered.