Obituary: Clifford Henry Peterson

Clifford Henry Peterson, 94, of Grass Lake, died on Jan. 18, 2013 at Chelsea Community Hospital. He was born Nov. 7, 1918 in Waterloo Township, the son of Nelson C. and Rhoana M. (Ortbring) Peterson.

Mr. Peterson has lived in Grass Lake all of his life. He was a World War II U.S. Navy veteran who served in the Pacific. Cliff attended Salem Grove United Methodist Church. He was a member for many years of the Michigan Steam Engine & Threshers Club, was a founding member and secretary/treasurer of Charlton Park Antique Engine Club, and a founding member of the Alpena Tractor and Steam Engine Club.

Cliff helped many people with building and re-building engines, model oil pulls (pup), and other projects. He was a tool and die maker in New Jersey with Rockwell from 1950-1957, retiring from Manchester Stamping in 1980.

On June 1, 1940, he married Marcella “Sally” Catherine Schultz at Salem Grove Methodist parsonage, and she preceded him in death on Jan. 2, 2000. Survivors include one sister, Elsie (Rudolph) Rohde of Grass Lake; three nephews: Donald (Donna) Rohde, Randy (Becky) Rohde, and Ronald Peterson; two nieces: Vivian (Lee) Boobier, and Dee (Darren) Heltahidel; and a special grand-nephew, Tim (Katie) Rohde; and many great-nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by three brothers: Donald, Norman, and Raymond.

Funeral services will be held Jan. 21, at 1:30 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Rev. Carolyn Harris officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Waterloo. Memorial contributions may be made to Salem Grove United Methodist Church, or a charity of your choice.