Carmella (Carm) Peterson passed peacefully into her eternal home Saturday, October 5, 2019. A visitation will be held from 5 – 8 PM, with a Prayer Service at 7 PM, Thursday, October 10th at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Isanti. Mass of Christian Burial 11 AM Friday, October 11th at St. Elizabeth with a visitation also one hour prior at church. Interment will be in Christ the King Catholic Cemetery.
Carmella (Carm) Agnes Peterson, age 84, of Isanti, was born on September 13, 1935 in Gluek, MN to John and Elizabeth (Scherman) Van Heel. Carm passed peacefully into her eternal home Saturday, October 5, 2019. She went to parochial school in Clara City, MN and graduated from Maynard High School in 1953. She earned her teaching degree from St. Cloud State University in 1957. She taught 2nd grade for two years at Hayes Elementary School in Fridley, MN. In 1958, she married Robert G. Peterson. After her 2nd year of teaching, she and Bob made their home in rural Isanti (Spencer Brook Twp) where they presently live. She and Bob lovingly raised 5 children. It was important for her to be home with her young children, so she resigned from teaching until they were school age. It was at that time, she became a beloved and highly requested substitute teacher at Isanti Elementary School (currently Isanti Primary School). For thirty years, she found much joy in the students and her many wonderful teacher friends. Carm always put the needs of others before her own; whether caring for her children and grandchildren, helping at her beloved St. Elizabeth Ann Seton parish, or making meals and sending cards for friends or family in need, she was there. Her strong devotion to the teaching of the Catholic faith guided her through life’s most difficult time; the unexpected death of her youngest son. She was an adored friend who loved to simply sit with a cup of coffee and talk about life (and the Twins). The lives of her family and friends have been abundantly blessed by her and we will hold her memory close.
Carm is survived by her husband, Bob; children, Jeff (Dawn Ahrens), Tim (Debby), Kari (Toby Ponting), Scott (Deb Stoffel); siblings, Betty (Wilbert) Macziewski, Audrey Otis, Dorothy Schuette; sisters-in-law, Laurel Van Heel, Faye Peterson; brother in law, Warren Doesken; 7 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Besides her parents she was preceded in death by her son, Jason; siblings, Mary (Bill) Johnson, Millie (Jerome) Artmann, Ann Doesken, Gervais (Judy) Van Heel, John Van Heel; brothers in law, Roland Schuette, Jim Otis, Jim Peterson; and special niece, Karla Schuette.
Barbara Smrekar says
Carm blessed me with her friendship over the past 40 years! She was my sub during the difficult times of my life & made things so much easier for me. We retired teachers have enjoyed our lunches each month with Carm. We will miss her so much. Now she is once again with Jason. Our sympathies to Bob & all the family.
Wanda Miskavige says
Carm always brought her love into Minnco Credit Union. I sure loved that lovely lady and always looked forward into seeing her and havinga good chat with her when she came in.so sorry for your loss. Sending my love to you all.
Linda Ostlund says
Carm was a treasured friend that brought so much joy to all that had the privilege to know her! I was so fortunate to have her sub for me at Isanti Elementary! She brought her compassion for education to the building! Carm was a friend to everyone! Carm always had a smile on her face and kind words for everyone. Carm will be missed by all! My deepest sympathy to the Peterson family!
Kersten Barfknecht-Conley says
I’m so sorry for your loss. For the few times I met her she seemed like such a sweet, kind and beautiful person. Heaven gained a beautiful angel and I will keep all of you in my prayers. God Bless
Cheryl knapp says
Carmen was such a special lady, looked forward to seeing her every Thursday morning at village hair, she always had a smile on her face and lots to talk about . We will miss her wonderful spirit so much. Thoughts and prayers and hugs to all of Carms family.
Teri says
Bob & Family
We want to send our sincere condolences for the passing of Aunt Carm. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Love, Joe, Donna & Teri (Gervase & Judy Van Heel’s children)
Dennis and Susan Olson says
We always enjoyed seeing Carm and accepting a hug from her. The students in our classes loved having Mrs. Peterson sub. She always had a smile and kind word for each child. Sincere sympathy to the Peterson family.
Dennis and Susan Olson
Patti, from the old Gust Larson place. 1964 to 1977. 7 says
My daughter, Pamela Dyson/Smith, let me know of Carm’s passing. I had wondered how the world was treating the Peterson family, never hearing anything from anyone that could have updated me on some of the changes. Life is short and we do what we can to make the best of every day we have. Enjoyed the friendship that was ours when we lived in your neighborhood. Will never forget Marvin and Vera. Peace be with you, Bob and your family. Mom’s are always a big loss to the family.