Obituary

Kenneth Gordon Peterson Jr., age 73, of Bellingham, went to be with the Lord on Monday October 28, 2024. He was surrounded by his beloved family at home on Lummi Island after finishing the fight against brain cancer.

Ken was born in Bellingham, WA in 1951 to Clara Severson Peterson and Kenneth Gordon Peterson Sr. He grew up with his family and many cousins on Country Lane and attended Marietta Elementary School, Shuksan Junior High School, and graduated from Bellingham High School in the class of 1969. After high school he entered the trades specializing in sheetmetal and built his career in Mechanical Contracting at Diamond B Constructors where he mentored many and retired as an estimator after 47 years in the industry. His work ethic and positive influence throughout the shop, the office and community was unparalleled.

Ken met and later married the love of his life, Kristina Newton Peterson in the summer of 1977 and they had three daughters, Taryn, Natalie and Lauren. He was very proud of his daughters and loved being their dad. Ken is survived by his wife of 47 years, Kris Peterson, Taryn Bailey (Josh), Natalie McEathron (Grant), and Lauren Powell (Jaden) and 9 grandchildren.  As well as his nephews, many cousins and dear friends. Ken is preceded in death by Dixie Peterson (sister), Kenneth Gordon Peterson Sr. (father), Gary Peterson (brother) and Clara Severson Peterson (mother).

Kenny loved hitting the open road on his Harley Davidson, making fresh ski tracks at Mt. Baker and most of all, spending quality time with his family. Whether it was grilling a steak, cracking crab, listening to good music, reading, or taking a beach walk on Lummi Island, he was always eager to make a meaningful connection with those around him. The way he lived his life reflected the values of his faith. Dad enjoyed the simple pleasures in life and did not take anything for granted. He fiercely loved his wife of 47 years and could regularly be found sitting together at their ‘spot’ on the beach. His grandchildren were each individually loved deeply by him, all eight granddaughters and one grandson. His kind blue eyes and warming smile will be missed dearly, he truly was a friend to all.

A celebration to honor Ken’s life will be held on Tuesday November 19^th at 2 pm at Christ the King Church, 4173 Meridian St. Bellingham, WA 98225.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Whatcom Hospice or Lummi Island Volunteer Fire Department Station #11.

I have fought the good fight I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7