Gerald Peterson, age 85, of Rapid City and formerly of Huron, passed away on Sunday, April 28, 2019 at Rapid City Regional Hospital. His funeral service will be at 10:00 AM on Friday, May 3, 2019 at American Lutheran Church in Huron with burial to follow at Riverside Cemetery with military honors by Huron Veterans Council. Visitation with his family present will be on Thursday, May 2, 2019 from 5-7 PM at American Lutheran Church with a Prayer Service and Time of Sharing to begin at 6:30 PM; or visitation one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday.

Gerald Eugene Peterson was born on April 17, 1934 to parents Mark R. and Freda C. (Schefsky) Peterson in Huron, South Dakota. He attended Huron Public Schools and graduated in 1952. Gerald attended Huron University for two years. Gerald was drafted into the US Army on January 8, 1957 and was honorably discharged on January 7, 1959.

Gerald married Rose Marie Gross in Bridgewater, SD on June 30, 1968. Gerald and Rose Marie lived in Huron their entire married lives. Rose Marie passed away on April 15, 2011.

Gerald worked at Sears part-time from 1950-1954 before starting his career with the United States Postal Service as a distribution clerk in 1954. Gerald retired in 1992. In his spare time, he enjoyed traveling, camping and woodworking. He loved listening to music, especially traditional country and polka. Gerald also drove a shuttle bus for the SD State Fair for 15 years, retiring in 2013. Gerald was a member of Good Sam Club, Fair City Travelers, Huron Rovers, NARFE, and Scamp Owners International. He was also a member of the American Lutheran Church in Huron where he participated in rolling bandages, coffee luncheons and both the spring and fall luncheons. He also ushered at services.

Gerald was preceded in death by his wife and his parents.

He is survived by his children, Janet (Michael) Carter of Rapid City and Julie (Chad) Clarey of Fairmont, MN. Five grandchildren, Amanda Messegee, Gabrielle and Yohannes Carter, Ethan and Kellen Stenzel. His brother and sister-in-law, Gordon and Janice Peterson of Huron, his beloved cat Sarafina, and special friend, Jasmin Falk of Munich, Germany.