Gordon Peterson, 80

Born Dec. 20, 1945, to Ira Nickolas Peterson and Caroline Kraft Peterson in Kalispell, Gordon attended St. Mathew’s School in Kalispell until the end of eighth grade in 1960. The family moved to Polson that summer.

Gordon graduated from Polson High School in 1964. He worked odd jobs for couple years then attended the University of Montana Western. 

He was then drafted into the Army in 1969 and served until 1970. He was honorably discharged as an E4 11B20 light weapons infantryman so he could continue his university studies. His passions were woodworking, cabinetmaking and furniture. 

Later he went to California for few years. He made great changes in his life while there. 

He eventually came back to Polson where he lived for the remainder of his life. During the holiday season he would build rocking chairs for local children. His joy was seeing their faces light up when he gifted these chairs to them. 

Gordon was preceded in death by his grandparents, mother, father, stepfather and one brother, Ira. Gordon is survived by two brothers, Melvin Peterson of Bigfork and Harvey Peterson (Leanor); two sisters, Gloria Morgon Jones (Dewi) and Rose (Lowell Alcock); as well as many nieces and nephews who he always had a special place in his heart for. He will be greatly missed!

There will be a celebration of life for Gordon on May 9 at the Elks Club in Polson from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.