To view the funeral services:
https://www.facebook.com/stevensonandsons
Muriel Eileen (Holmquist) Peterson entered this world on Oct. 6, 1924 in Amor Township south of Bowman ND. She was the next to youngest of eight children born to Frank and Emma (Uhrhammer) Holmquist, who had homesteaded on the prairies of southwest North Dakota in 1907. She was reared on the family farm and attended Medicine Hills rural grade school. She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith in Bowman.
She learned many lessons about survival and responsibility early in her life. Besides growing up during the Depression, her mother passed away when she was 14 years old. She had a severe bout with rheumatic fever when she was 15 years old and was near death for two weeks at Holy Rosary Hospital in Miles City. When she went back to Bowman, she lived with her cousin Wesley Anderson and his wife Nora from August to November of 1940. She lived in Powell, WY with her sister Bernice and husband Ed Freitag from November 1940 to Easter of 1941. Her father passed about this time just 4 years after losing her mother. After all of this, she went back to high school and graduated from Bowman High School in 1943. With the loss of both parents at such a young age, and World War II, her life was shaped forever.
On April 24, 1944, she married Kenneth M. Peterson in Fort Pierce, FL. He was discharged from the Navy in December of 1945 and they farmed south of Bowman until July of 1949. During this time, three children joined this union: Kenneth L., Gary and Renee. They moved to Miles City, MT where she devoted her life to being a wife, mother, homemaker and grandmother. Her parents and siblings were always on her mind as she loved them all and never forgot her heritage. Everyone came first and she went without so we could “have.” She was the glue and peacemaker of the family.
Haying and harvest time, community gatherings and old-time dances were among her fondest memories. She was an outstanding seamstress, baker, cook and housekeeper. She would help those in need without fanfare and had a great sense of humor.
In September of 2015, she moved to Highgate Senior Living in Billings and with the outstanding care they provided, she had five great years. She loved her time there and the entire staff. Thank you Highgate!!
Our mother and grandmother exited this world because of Covid-19 into her Saviors hands on November 5, 2020. She did this with calmness, peacefulness and was pain free. She has joined her husband, Kenneth M. who preceded her in death in 1999, along with her parents five brothers and one sister. Muriel has looked forward to this reunion for quite some time.
She is survived by two sons, Kenneth L. (Margaret) Peterson of Billings, Gary (Deana) Peterson of Great Falls, and one daughter, Renee Peterson of Miles City; grandchildren: Bryan (Jodi) Peterson, Casey (Meredith) Peterson, Darcie (Ben) Aakre, and a step-grandchild Tracy (Sue) Wittman, great-grandchildren: Brock (Brooke), Bryce, Josie, Greta, Evan, and Garret Peterson, Luke and Elizabeth Aakre: one sister, Arlene (Henry) Messer of Inverness, FL: sisters-in-law; Ina Holmquist of CO, Emily Stadheim of ND, and Eunice Taylor of Miles City, MT.
With the love and care you provided as well as the laughter and fun that engulfed our home, we were the richest family in town. We did not realize we were “poor” until we left home. Love you Mom, The Kids.
The Family will have a private funeral service (due to COVID) November 21, 2020 and graveside to follow in The Custer County Cemetery. The family will be having a time of sharing during the service and asks if you have something to share to please email stevenson@midrivers.com and they will have it read. Condolences may be sent to our website www.stevensonandsons.com
Memorials can be sent to Miles City Meals on Wheels program to the Council of Aging 1010, Main Street, Suite # 12 Miles City, MT 59301.
MARTHA CRANDALL says
my sympathy
Diane Welbes says
Sorry to hear about your loss. May it comfort you to know I care.
Carolyn Kimball says
A beautiful soul Muriel was! She was always smiling and will truly be missed. My heart goes out to her family.
Dick and Kay Wells says
So sorry to hear of the loss of your mom. Will be thinking of all the Peterson family in the days ahead!
Joby Parket says
Deepest sympathy Renee and family. Bill and Joby
Sandi Kohones and Jon Wilkerson says
So sorry for your loss.
Holly Franklin says
I am so saddened by Muriel’s passing . She always gave me the better insight of the world. Rest well my friend.
Deb and ken says
So sorry to hear about your mom. She will be missed.
Carolyn Hays says
Rene, so sorry to hear your mother has passed. I know how close you were with her and you have my deepest sympathies. Take care and know you are loved!
Jim and Cathy Bastian says
Peterson Family we are so sorry! Your mom was quite the lady! I used to love to watch her laugh! She has left you all a wonderful legacy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you go through these next days.
Vaughna Anderson Frye says
So sorry for your loss Rene! Thinking of you this day and praying for your family.
Doug and Lucy Benge says
Ken, Gary,Rene and all family:
Condolences on your mom’s passing. I always enjoyed our annual visits. A sparkle in her eye and a smile on her face. She will be missed and leaves a great legacy in all of you. Best wishes to all.
Peggy and Earl says
To Muriel’s family,
Earl joins me in sending heartfelt condolences to you in the passing of your beloved Mother. We will always remember her beautiful spirit, her giving heart, and the many lives she touched. May you find comfort in the many warm memories you have of her. You are, and will continue to be, in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Janet Klein says
My sympathy to the Peterson family. Muriel was a special lady~~
Mark and Kate Peterson says
Ken, Gary, Renee and all of the family…Kate and I send our sympathy to all of you. We have so many great memories of camping with Kenneth and Muriel, and I still have great memories of her wonderful chocolate layer cake when I was a kid. I know you have many great memories of her. She was indeed a very special lady. Love to all.
Donna Tebeau says
Renee,Ken,and Gary
Wishing all of you and your families peace to bring you comfort, courage to face the days ahead, and loving memories to hold in your heart. Mrs. Peterson was always so kind to me, and I honor her in my heart. May your mom Rest In Peace until you are all reunited.
Dolores Meidinger Willson says
Even though you knew for a while now that she was near the end, it is still very hard to lose your Momma.
My sincere sympathy to Rene’e, Ken & Gary and all family & friends. Enjoy your many memories of fun & laughter that you all shared.
Ruben and June Opp says
Renee,and all of the Peterson family,We are so sorry to see where your mom passed away,she was a very special lady,and always so pleasant.Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during these difficult days,may God bless and comfort you all.
June and Ruben Opp
Kelly Doerr says
Kenny, Gary, Renee and the entire family
So sorry to hear of Muriels passing. She was one funny, beautiful and loving person (second mom) to Tim, Kim and myself. She will be greatly missed . Thoughts, prayers and love to you all from all of us.
Denise Harvey says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all as you cherish the memories and legacy of a wonderful lady!
Denise and Jay Harvey and family
Jessie Leidholt says
Renee and family, I am so sorry to read of your mom’s passing. Enjoyed knowing her from church, she was a delight.
KIMBERLY NEIFFER says
Renee and family, We are sending our thoughts and prayers your way.
Kimberly Neuhardt Neiffer,
Larisa Neiffer Watson,
Tanner Neiffer,
LaToya Neiffer Gardner & families
Beverly McDowell Harris says
Every time I open this page and see Muriel’s picture I feel comfort. Her hair reminds me of all the times watching my mom put pin curls & curlers in it with waves and clips in the back. She was a second mother to me and brother Dave, I believe even my God mother. I am so glad I made that trip to Billings for her birthday party and the chance to see the family all together. She was a beautiful person.
Roberta Rickman says
Rene and family,
So very sorry for your loss. Hugs.
Paula (Hartse) Hufford says
Renee
I was so sorry to hear your mother passed away. I know how hard it can be. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Kathy Strub says
Rene my condolences to you. May your precious memories sustain you. What beautiful, classy woman your mom was!
Linda Hodgson says
Sympathy and prayers to the Peterson family.
Vickie and Dave Gunderson says
Gary and all the Peterson family, we are so sorry about your Mom’s passing. What a long and wonderful life! God bless all of you in the rough days ahead..sending hugs and prayers your way.
Kristyna M Hartse says
Renee, Gary, and Ken
I am so very sorry for your loss. May the wonderful memories of your mom bring you peace and comfort.
Kris
Josephine Meidinger says
So sorry to hear about your mother. Sending hugs and prayers
Marie root says
Dear Peterson family,
The angel on earth Muriel was a most positive presence in my life since before i was born. My thoughts and heart are with you dear ones now and always. Love from marie root
Sandy Anderson says
So sorry to hear of Muriel’s passing. Such a nice lady. Thoughts and prayers to you all.
Doug and Diane Ellingson says
So sorry to hear of you mother passing. Our thoughts and prayers for your family.
Stephani Schumacher-Collins says
Renee, very sorry to hear of Muriel’s passing. She was a lovely person. You take care.
Mike Archdale says
Renee, Gary and Ken
So sorry for your loss. Remember all your great memories of your family and of growing up in Miles City. It was a great time and place to be raised Garfield School, Washington School and Custer County High School, church, organizations. Yes our parents made a great place to be raised.
Lloyd & Jan Sohl says
Our sympathy to the Peterson Family. Mrs. Peterson always had a smile that added charm to the visit. A very nice cordial lady. Thoughts and prayers are with each of you.
Gayle Mcewen says
Warm thoughts of Mrs Petwerson and admiration for a remarkable woman. My heart goes out to the family.
Kenny Greni says
To the Peterson’s,
We were sorry to learn of Muriel’s death.She was such a pleasant lady,We always enjoyed visiting with her.We are thinking of you during this time of loss and sadness.
Kenny and Lorell Greni
Norma Lilienthal Greenbaum says
I’m so sorry to hear that Muriel has passed away. She was a wonderful neighbor and good to all the kids. It has been so long ago. I wasn’t able to attend the last couple reunions for my class and ran out of time to drive down to see her at the last reunion we attended. Please accept our deepest sympathy and it wouldn’t surprise me if my mom isn’t waiting to catch up on all the news. God Bless You, Muriel
Conrad and Kay Deen Carlson says
Kenny, Gary and Renee
Sorry to learn of your mothers passing. When we were kids we always loved coming to your house. Your mothers laughter was infectious and she always seemed so happy! Remember when (1950) I had my tonsils out and we stayed at your home for a couple days. She tried so hard to get me to take baby chewing gum aspirin and after a lot of pain I reluctantly agreed and then I wanted some every hour. It was so fun to be with both your parents. She was one person that you couldn’t help but like. Please accept our deepest sympathy.
Conrad and Kay Deen Carlson
Roselae Babcock says
Special love and thoughts are extended to Renee, Gary, Ken and Muriel’s extended family. Your parents hospitality was always warm and endearing. They made me feel very much at home in your home. Muriel was outstanding in so many ways. She was always cheerful, considerate of others, even esteeming others above herself. She enjoyed little things and appreciated simple acts of kindness. Though you feel loss of her, we all have wonderful memories of her and much to cheer us because of her impressive life. You have my deepest sympathy.
Shelley Killen says
Renee, So sorry to here of your mothers passing in these horrible times. Know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Lana Rae (Ek) says
To all of the Peterson family, I am so sorry for your loss. Pickles, I hope all is well with you although I know this has to be hard. I miss seeing you, so if you ever get to Billings, let me know and we can meet up. Love.
Betty O'Brien says
I remember Muriel and Ken well – thought of them often. We moved from Miles City in 1958 TO othello, WA as my husband Gene worked on the Milwaukee RR – Remember the soft ball games – and your dad relief pitching when things got rough. Oh for the good OLD times. Sorry to hear of the passing of your mom but remember her as the sweet OLDER lady among us younger ones (smile) A beautiful picture of you mom. Sorry but remember your family well – even you kids. Betty CarterO’Brien
Karen Wallace says
To all of the Peterson family,
So sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers to all of you.
Karen and Marvin Wallace
Rick and Dee Abbott says
Renee and others of Muriel’s family: We were so sorry to learn of the loss of Muriel. You are in our prayers for you comfort, peace and solace.
Sue (Gorman) Nichols says
Oh Renee, Gary and Kenny, I am so sorry to hear of this. She was a grand lady who loved all. I always loved when we visited with her and she told stories of my dad gowning up with her and the family. My dad dearly love her and all your family. I am sure he was waiting with a great big hugs for her when she reached heaven. Please know you are all in my prayers.
Brenda Witkowski says
Dearest G-Pop! So sorry to hear about your momma!!! What a beautiful lady! Many hugs and lots of love to you and your crew! So very much miss you at work!!! We think of you all of the time and repeat your one liners to the newbies! Your momma must have been amazing to raise such a keeper like you!!! You all are in my prayers!
Brian & Melinda Lynnes says
Dear Peterson Family, we are so very sorry for your loss of Muriel. She was such a sweet lady and her laugh was infectious! She made great lefse, too! Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. With deepest sympathy, Brian & Melinda Lynnes
Chuck & Georgia Walter and Ruby Moore says
So sorry to hear of Muriel’s passing. We only knew her from Highgate where she graciously shared a dining table with Helen Yerger, Georgia’s and Ruby’s mother. She had the most friendly and warm personality of anyone we have ever met. Muriel was as beautiful on inside as she was on the outside. What a special lady she was. Our sincere condolences to the entire family.
Michelle Freitag Robson says
Dear Petersen family,
I have fond memories of Muriel, especially the times when all the sisters were together. I was always struck by Muriel’s physical similarities to Bernice. When I last saw Muriel in Bowman after my dad Miles passed away, I remember sitting with Muriel and felt such a connection to Bernice. Her obituary captured her so well. Sending our love during this difficult time. Michelle Freitag Robson and family
Mary Bloom says
Gary and Family so sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sandi Bruce says
So sorry for your loss.
Cindy Slater says
My family lived next door to Muriel & Kenneth back in the early 60’s. They were really good people and my Mother and Muriel remained friends for many years to come. Muriel was a good friend to our family and she was an amazing seamstress. She used to make the most beautiful dresses for me when I was in grade school. I never forgot that. Her cookies were fabulous. So many memories of Muriel & Kenneth and being at her home. She had this amazing strength and a smile that lit up a room. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.