Frances Ann (Erickson) Peterson

Fran Peterson, of Oak Park Heights, MN, was called home to be with the Lord on March 15, 2025 at age 90. 

Fran grew up in Ellsworth, WI, and married her love, Ritchie Peterson, while he was in seminary. After his ordination as a minister, Fran & Ritchie lived and served in churches in Monmouth and Arthur, IA, and Babbitt and Ham Lake, MN. 

Fran was a loving and caring mom to her 3 children, supporting them in all of their ventures. She had a special place in her heart and extra love for her grandchildren. 

Fran held various secretarial and office manager positions during her career, including working for Pillsbury, in medical offices, public schools, county offices, and finally at AgriChem. After retirement, Fran & Ritchie enjoyed winters in Mesa, AZ for many years. She created needlework of all kinds, including sewing, cross-stitch, and knitting, and had a special passion for hardanger, producing gorgeous blue ribbon winning projects. Fran played the piano for church and accompanied choirs for many years. She also enjoyed watching animals and feeding the birds. Her life was guided by her strong Christian faith and her big-hearted love for her family. 

Fran is preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Ritchie and parents, C. Lytle and Alice Erickson. She is dearly missed by children Barry (Anne), Barbara (Mark) Strohbehn, and Brenda (Tom) Johnson; 9 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren; siblings Bette (Tom) Wiff, Karen Langer, Diane Hauschildt, Larry (Karen) Erickson, and Carla (Lyle) Linhart. 

A private memorial service is planned.