W. Peterson

W. Russell Peterson, 85, of West Liberty, Ohio, passed away Tuesday, January 7, 2014 in Mary Rutan Hospital in Bellefontaine, Ohio.

He was born in Ross County Ohio August 15, 1928, the son of the late Willard R. and Elizabeth (Briggs) Peterson.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Jane Hamman and two brothers, Mart and Chuck Peterson.

He is survived by his wife of sixty two years, Sue (Hosfield) Peterson of West Liberty whom he married May 26, 1951 in Cleveland, Ohio. He is also survived by their five children, Sandy Peterson of Hilliard, Ohio, Lee (Barb) Peterson of Omaha, Nebraska, Janie Peterson of Columbus, Ohio, Dean (Shari) Peterson of Indianapolis, Indiana, and Laurie (Mike) Aldrich of Richmond, Virginia; eight grandchildren; six great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Russell graduated from high school in Frankfort, Ohio and attended The Ohio State University in Columbus before serving his county in the United States Air Force as a Staff Sergeant. He worked in sales for the Ralston Purina Company before retiring. He and his wife together owned and operated The Liberty House Bed and Breakfast in West Liberty for ten years.

Russell was a member of the West Liberty United Church of Christ. He was also a fifty year member of the Free and Accepted Masons as well as a member of the Lions Club where he was quite active. He also belonged to the American Legion.

Pastor Paul E. Forrey will officiate a memorial service Saturday, January 11, 2014, at 12:00 noon at the West Liberty United Church of Christ in West Liberty. A time of food and sharing will follow the service in the church fellowship hall.

The staff of the Eichholtz Daring & Sanford Funeral Home in West Liberty assisted the family with the arrangements.