Teddy Peterson

Teddy Lee Peterson, 73, passed away Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at Minnesota Veteran’s Home in Fergus Falls, MN.

Ted was born on December 5, 1949 in Ada, MN to Lyle and Phylis Peterson. Ted grew up in Twin Valley, MN, along with his brother, Denny, and his sister, Judy. He graduated from Twin Valley High School in 1967. Following high school, Ted enlisted in the United Stated Army. He served his country from 1969 to 1971, including a tour in Vietnam. While in Vietnam, Ted worked for the Armed Forces Vietnam Network, which began his career in the television industry. Upon returning from service, Ted married the love of his life, his “babe”, Sue Pavek. Ted and Sue were united in marriage on September 29, 1973.

Ted and Sue lived in Fargo, ND, Aberdeen, SD, and Grand Forks, ND, and eventually made their home in Thompson, ND, where they raised their children, Jenny, Jason, and Matt. Ted worked at WDAZ-TV in Grand Forks, ND for over 20 years. He enjoyed creating commercials for local businesses, often with his kids in starring roles, and working as a producer for UND Fighting Sioux televised events. Ted also played the role of Santa on WDAZ’s Santa’s Toyland for several years. Following his career at WDAZ, Ted started his own videography business. In 2003, Ted and Sue moved to Alexandria, MN, where they could be closer to their grandchildren, Graham and Sam. Ted drove bus for Rainbow Rider and was well known as “Grandpa Ted” to many young riders in the area.

Life took a cruel turn when Ted was diagnosed with Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease. In 2019, Ted moved to his final home, the Minnesota Veteran’s Home in Fergus Falls, MN. There he maintained the best quality of life possible until his final day, May 16, 2023.

Ted cherished life, family, and friends. He had a quick wit and enjoyed making those around him laugh. He never took life too seriously, which is important when you are a Chicago Bears fan. Ted enjoyed going to his kids’ and grandkids’ sporting events. He refereed high school basketball games for many years. Ted had a unique fashion sense, including wearing shorts year-round and Zubaz to any event. He loved to fish and his time at Birch Haven Resort on Gull Lake. He spent many hours on the lake with his dog, Cassie, and anyone who would go fishing with him, trying to catch his limit of walleyes.

Ted is survived by his wife, Sue, and their children, Jennifer (Nick) Wolff of Milwaukee, WI, Jason (Sara) Peterson of Alexandria, MN, and Matthew Peterson of Duluth, MN, and their grandsons, Graham and Sam. Ted is also survived by his brother, Dennis (Kathy) Peterson of Outing, MN, his sister, Judith (Gary) Baird of Murphysboro, IL, a large and close group of brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, and his beloved dog, Sofie. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lyle and Phylis Peterson, his father-in-law and mother-in law, Lloyd and Marilyn Pavek, brother-in-law, Steve Pavek, brother-in-law, Greg Pavek, and sister-in-law, Jamie Pavek.

Ted’s family would like to extend their deepest appreciation and thanks to the Minnesota Veteran’s Home staff. They treated him with dignity, compassion and love. They are and always will be a part of Ted’s family. Also, thank you to Red River Valley Hospice for providing comfort to Ted and Sue during the final months.

Celebration of Life service for Ted will be held on Friday, May 26, 2023 at 1:00 pm at Olson Funeral Home (711 Pebble Lake Road, Fergus Falls, MN 56537), with a visitation an hour prior to the service. A private burial will follow.

For those wishing, memorials to Hospice of Red River Valley ( https://www.hrrv.org/giving-back/ ) or Minnesota Veteran’s Home ( https://mn.gov/mdva/donate/fergus-falls-donations.jsp ) are appreciated.
One final note, Ted’s preference for his final send-off is casual dress. No suits. If Ted saw you in a suit, he would ask if you were going to a funeral.

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls.
Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com