Derek Wade Peterson

September 17, 1958 - November 5, 2016

Derek Wade Peterson born September 17, 1958 passed away unexpectedly on November 5, 2016.

He grew up in Rose Park, graduating from West High in 1976. Derek worked for the Union Pacific Rail Road for 40 years.

Derek was too young to die; he lived life to the fullest, and his interests were diverse. At the top of his list was sitting on the deck with the love of his life, Kathryn, enjoying a cocktail, listening to Marvin Gaye, and watching the sunset! He LOVED his Harley, golf, football, skiing, concerts, animals and being married to his best friend Kathryn. He was dearly loved and respected by his many friends.

He is survived by his beloved wife Kathryn McReynolds Peterson; brothers Byron Peterson, Juddy Peterson; stepchildren Ashlee Christopher (Dylan) and Connor Richins; three grandchildren; niece Laurie Peterson (Dan); nephew Justin Marshall; and many beloved friends, all of which will miss him deeply. Derek was preceded in death by his mother Vera Zelpha Vario Peterson; father Clyde Peterson; and sisters Vonda Lee Milward and Patty Marshall.

A Celebration of Life with family and friends will be held Friday, November 11, 2016 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City, where the theme for the evening will be Harley Davidson Orange and Black. Complimentary valet parking provided on the north side of the building.

 

 

In Loving Memory

Kathryn, So sorry to hear of your loss. May you be comforted in this difficult time. Steve & Liz Larsen

Steve Larsen

South Jordan, UT

Hi Kathryn, So sorry for your loss, praying for you and your family.

Alta Wilson

Lithia, Fl

Love and will miss you my Brother. Condolences to Kathryn and family. Love Mark and Lynn.

Mark & Lynn Oliver

Bountiful, Ut

Kathryn, I am saddened to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family

Todd Frost

Taylorsville, UT

I met Derek a few years ago at Golds Gym, now known as VASA. Even though I am several years older than Derek, we seemed to have much in common, Like Harleys and weight lifting. It has been my honor to have Derek as a friend.

Mike Hanks

Bountiful, Ut

Sorry for your loss Derek's been a long time customer East Coast Subs we're going to miss seeing him roll up on his Harley

East coast sub

Salt LAKE City, Ut

Derek was my family. Not just an Uncle, the blood brother of my father, distanced by 20 years and absent of any family connection. But, after my grandma Vera died, Derek and I became best friends. From that point forward he was family; part of my very small, incredibly loving family. We shared many friends and considered many, "extended family." We celebrated every holiday, birthday, and life events together. Derek was always there for me; and, he would tell you he knew I was always there for him. We shared many family losses, including the unexpected death of my mom, at a young 64; my only brother, just 2 years older, and just 7 months ago. Derek was there for both. My rock. I admired Derek for his strength, courage, strong values, principles, and integrity. He was honest, sincere, sensitive, and genuine. He didn't judge people. He celebrated diversity and enjoyed a wide variety of friends and interests. He was gracious and generous. He worked hard, investing wisely so he could enjoy the fruits of his labor for years to come: a beautiful home, nice ride, series of Harleys... He loved animals; and, they loved him! I admired Derek for taking care of his mom, throughout the years, until her last breath. For loving and taking care of his nephew, Justin, when Patty died; and, for the role he played in helping shape Justin into the great father he's become in raising his 3 amazing sons: Matthew, Jordan and Jayden. I admired Derek's ability to love deeply. He was passionate and put it all out there when he found his soul mate, Kathryn. They were the "happy" in "ever after." I respected Derek for embracing his 'ready made' family, Kathryn's beautiful Connor, Ashley, and son-in-law, Dylan; and, the 3 grandbabies that soon had him wrapped. My heart aches. And, it breaks for Kathryn; for Justin; for the huge loss that only time, courage and love can heal. Derek, you had so much love to give - so much life yet to live! You may be gone, but you'll never be forgotten!

Laurie Peterson

Sandy, UT

unbelievable. Uncle "D".. The person who has always been there for me, who has taught me life lessons, and disciplined me for bad choices, and helped shape me into the man and father that I am today! Their are a lot of people that are still in shock and can't believe this news. I know Kathryn is waiting for you to walk through the front door. And I'm still waiting for the phone call about Thanksgiving Dinner!! This is the true meaning of bad things happen to good people! Me and the boys love you very much! And thank you for every thing!! Rest in Paradise Uncle "D" god now has one good angel that is probably driving him crazy by driving a loud Harley Davidson up in heaven looking over us. We love and miss you very much! ❤️😇

Justin marshall

West Jordan, Ut

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