Shirley Peterson

Shirley Marace Peterson, 89, passed away peacefully on October 2, 2025, at Willow Valley Communities in Lancaster, PA.

Born in 1936 in Eugene, Oregon, Shirley excelled in academics and music at Medford High School, where she played first chair clarinet and was active in many clubs. She went on to earn scholarships to Lewis and Clark College in Portland, OR, where she majored in Biology, and later completed a Master’s Degree from the University of Cincinnati. In 1959, she married Jerry Peterson, and together they built a life full of adventures and meaningful friendships while raising their two children, Kerstin and Jon.

Shirley was a woman of many talents and interests. She was an avid quilter and reader, a musician, writer, businesswoman and lifelong learner. She cherished her roles as mother, Oma, and great-grandmother. Her family will remember her for her creativity and curiosity.

She was predeceased by her husband Jerry in 2016 and her daughter’s partner Vito in 2013. She is survived by her children Kerstin and Jon (Kristin); grandchildren Kelsy, Lauren (James), and Devin; and two great-grandchildren Jack and Thomas. She is also survived by 3 siblings, John, Day, and Tacy.

Her life was well lived and well loved.

A memorial service will be held on October 18th, 2025 at 1:00 PM, at the Willow Valley Manor North Auditorium.

GPS address: North at Willow Valley, 600 Willow Valley Square, Lancaster, PA 17602. Enter through the visitor gate and follow the signs.