John "Jack" S. Peterson, Sr. , 79, of East Grand Forks, MN passed away Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, ND, surrounded by his loving family.

Jack was born August 29, 1945, in Grand Forks, ND to Donald and Mary Peterson. Jack joined the United States Navy after high school where he served in the Vietnam War. Jack met Catherine Mertes while on leave. They married on March 17th, 1969. They had five children together.

Jack worked for BNSF Railroad for 33 years. He took great pride in his work and loved teaching his grandchildren about the railroad. In his spare time, he enjoyed being on the lake and driving his 1965 Corvette. Most of all, Jack enjoyed being with his family. Whether it was buying a car, time at the lake, going out for breakfast, a backyard barbeque or just a good conversation, he loved being with his family.

Jack is survived by his wife, Catherine Peterson of East Grand Forks, MN. His children, Debra Sorteberg of East Grand Forks, MN, Rosemary (Jon) Everding of East Grand Forks, MN, John (Tara) Peterson of Fisher, MN, Sandra (Scott) Golla of Bagley, MN, and Donald (Michelle) Peterson of East Grand Forks, MN. As well as 17 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

Jack was preceded in death by his father and mother, brothers, Donald Peterson and Michael Peterson, and great granddaughter, Catherine Berg.

Jack was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Jack will be forever loved and truly missed.

A Celebration of Life for Jack: Will be held Friday, April 18th, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the American Legion Club 1009 Central Avenue NW,  East Grand Forks, MN 56721.
Any questions, regarding the service, please reach out to the family or to Kaylee Metzger, Jack's granddaughter.
Military Honors: Accorded by members of the American Legion Post 157, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3817 and the United States Navy Reserve Honor Guard.