Sharon "Shari" Peterson
July 11, 1956 - September 25, 2022

Sharon "Shari" Peterson, 66, passed away peacefully at Mary Greeley Hospital with her immediate family by her side. Even though she was determined not to "give up on anything", her body could not be healed here on earth. She fought her cancer with other bodily ailments up until her final days. Her bravery and perseverance remained with her until her final heartbeat.

Sharon Ann Sternitzke was born on July 11 1956 to her parents David and Loretta Sternitzke. She was born and raised in Fort Dodge. She held fond memories of her childhood while growing up. She graduated from the Fort Dodge Senior High School. She was an active bowler with the Dodger Girl Bowling Team and competed with her team to win the state championship. Shari often spoke of her childhood memories with her family and friends. She held those memories close to her and could often recall every person by name accompanied with a specific event or memory attached.

Shari then met the love of her life and married Ron Peterson on May 3rd, 1975 at Corpus Christi Church. Together, they created their home and family here in Fort Dodge. She gave birth to David Francis Peterson on November 30th, 1977 and Ian Peterson on February 5th, 1981. She loved and cared deeply for her boys. Together they all traveled around the country, Vegas became her favorite place to vacation. Her time spent at Casino's with her family was some of the best. Shari worked for Randalls Bakery and then at the HyVee Bakery for 42 collective years. Her talents and passions were baking and quilting. She perfected these talents to a fine art. Her family then grew when her son, Ian, married Holly Krug on May 14th, 2005. The best chapter of her life began on July 22 2009, when Bailen David Peterson was born. Following Sharilynn "Shari" Marie Peterson and Carlin Dean Peterson on April 10th, 2014. She was proud of her Grandchildren and took delight in spoiling them. Each Grandchild held a special place in her heart, each had their own traditions for their sleepovers.

She began retirement in the fall of 2021. She then used her newfound free time to do anything that she pleased. She passionately advocated for David to have socialization with his friends and create a place for all adults with disabilities to meet. She served as one of the first members to help create The Golden Day Adult Day Program. Her and David created very happy memories during their program days.

She is survived by her husband, Ron Peterson. children David Peterson and Ian (Holly) Peterson, grandchildren Bailen Peterson, Sharilynn "Shari" Peterson, and Carlin Peterson.

She was preceded in death by her parents, David and Loretta Sternitke.

Shari loved the gift of life. Some of the best times and memories were created with her family and friends. Her love for her family and time spent with her Grandchildren made her so very happy. She was known to speak her mind and was not afraid to make her point of view known. Inside jokes and memorable phrases were used regularly as needed. Her baking and quilting were her finest and most precious gifts that she gave to others close in her life. She cheered for the Denver Broncos and never gave up on her team. Shari's memory and legacy will be held closely by all who she had known.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 AM Friday, September 30, 2022 at Holy Trinity Church. Burial will follow in Callender Cemetery. A visitation will be 4:00 to 7:00 PM Thursday at Laufersweiler Funeral Home.

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