Eldon Peterson

Eldon M. Peterson, age 69, of Clear Lake, SD, passed away Thursday, October 3, 2024 at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD. Funeral service will be 10:30 am on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Clear Lake, SD. Burial will be in the Lakeview Cemetery, Clear Lake. Visitation will be 5 – 7 pm Monday, October 7, 2024 at the Houseman Funeral Home in Clear Lake and will resume Tuesday one hour prior to the service at the church. Houseman Funeral Home in Clear Lake, SD is entrusted with the arrangements.

Eldon Mark Peterson was born on March 17th, 1955 in Clear Lake, SD, to Melvin and Doris (Estenson) Peterson, and was the second of three children. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Clear Lake, SD. He attended school at Farview District 73 through 6th grade then attended and graduated from Clear Lake public school. He lived his entire life in the Grant and Deuel county area. In his younger days he was known to be wild and energetic and loved playing the drums, playing in multiple bands at dances and events. He also loved working with his father on the farm. With the passing of his father on March 15th, 1982, Eldon took over running the family farm.

Eldon was united with Betty in marriage on November 23rd, 1985. He attended Brown Institute and graduated in 1989 in Radio and Television Broadcasting. He then started a job at KCGN Radio. After working on the radio he sold atlases over the road for Midland Atlas. Then worked at John Deere for a number of years before returning to farm on the original Peterson land. While farming he also worked selling pictures for Morning Star Photography.

Eldon was a hard-working, strong willed man who loved to talk, forming many long lasting friendships. He was known for his love of music listening to new and old music whether it was on the radio or online. He had a passion for farming, and you could always find him in his bib overalls driving around and checking the fields. Eldon went to be with our heavenly Father on Thursday, October 3, 2024 at the age of 69 years, 6 months and 17 days.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Betty; children: Chris, Tanya, James, Tyler, and Kanae (exchange student); 12 grandchildren: Christian, Matthew, Hannah, Abby, Isaiah, Aubrey, Brandon, Anika, Kari, Vivian, Luann, and Scottie; sister, Linda Martinell; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Melvin and Doris; son, Scott Peterson; father-in-law, mother-in-law; and sister, LuAnn.