Sarmita Peterson

Our hearts are heavy as we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Sarmita Dzintra Peterson (Priede), who went home to be with the Lord on May 10, 2026.

Sarmita is survived by her loving husband, Calvin Peterson; her children, Tamara (John) Mayer, Travis (Jess) Peterson, Danielle Mkali, Micah Peterson, and Jeremiah Peterson (Katie); and her cherished grandchildren, Sahkeena, Ash, Lauren, Christopher Ezrah, Kahlil, Indikaia, Emeric, Naima, and Althea MaeDelle. She is also survived by many beloved in-laws, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Vera; her brother, Zigmunds; and her mother-in-law and father-in-law, MaeDelle and Alvin Peterson.

Sarmita was born on December 12, 1942, in Riga, Latvia. Before the age of two, she fled Latvia with her mother and brother during World War II and lived in a refugee camp in Lübeck, Germany. In September 1950, her family immigrated to the United States, sponsored by a farmer in Mankato. They later settled in Minneapolis, where Sarmita attended Minnehaha Academy and formed lifelong friendships. During those years, she also developed a deep connection to Covenant Pines Bible Camp, a place she considered her favorite on earth, and where she met the love of her life, Calvin.

Sarmita studied social work at the University of Minnesota and graduated in 1965. That same year, she and Calvin were married. Together they built a loving home and family in Stillwater.

Sarmita found joy in public speaking, visual arts, choir, classical music, travel, time with her high school friends, affectionately known as the "Pumpkin Gang" and especially in dating her husband throughout their many years together. She was a devoted mother and a deeply loving grandmother who never missed an opportunity to show up for the people she loved. Her grandchildren were among the greatest joys of her life.

For many years, Sarmita lived with heart failure and other chronic illnesses, facing each challenge with resilience, grace, and deep faith. Above all, Sarmita drew strength and hope from her faith in Jesus Christ, who was the light of her life. Her enduring love story with Calvin, her compassion for others, and her steadfast faith leave a legacy that will continue to live on through all who knew and loved her.

Celebration of her life will be held at Salem Covenant Church in New Brighton on Thursday, May 28th. 12:00 visitation, 1:00 service. Refreshments to follow.