Gerald "Jerry" Peterson, 90, of Rochester passed away peacefully on Monday, July 1, 2019 with his family at his side.

Born on July 30, 1928, in Duluth, he was the oldest of 6 children to Joyan and Esther Peterson.  He attended Denfeld High School and graduated through night school after dropping out to support the family when his dad died in 1945. Duluth was home and he spent all but his last few years in the Duluth area.

He was the founding partner in Peterson Bros. Trucking Co., a Duluth based contract hauling business, from 1947 – 1992. He served in the US Air Force – Air National Guard, 1950 – 1953.

Jerry was an active member of Temple Baptist Church, Mt. of Olives Baptist Church, both of Duluth and in later years at Calvary Baptist Church of Rochester. He was a 25 year member of Kiwanis International, Duluth and Rochester; and Teamsters Union – Duluth Local 1046.  He was a long time board member at Union Cemetery in Hermantown.  An avid gardener, antique car enthusiast, "Bumpa" as he was called by the grandchildren, was most comfortable working around "the farm" or enjoying the cabin with family at Park Lake, Mahtowa.

He is preceded in death by his parents and stepfather, Joseph Garceau; his sons, Jerry Jr., Kirk; brothers, Richard "Dick" Peterson and Alan "Bill" Peterson; and so many drivers, long time friends, and extended family members.  Jerry is survived by his wife of 64 years, Mary Ann; sons, Steven (Carol), Matthew (Dana), Tom (Linda); daughter Melinda Soderberg (Rick); 13 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; sisters, Kathleen Kamphaus, Connie Nelson; and brother Mark Peterson.

Bumpa was a humble man who has passed a legacy of faith to his family and friends.  He will be greatly missed but we treasure the memories of a wonderful husband, father and grandpa/great grandpa and we thank the Lord for his loving influence on all of us!

A memorial service for Jerry will be held on Saturday, July 6, at 3 p.m. at Waters Edge Church (formerly Temple Baptist), 2202 West 3rd Street, Duluth, Minnesota.  A luncheon will follow the service at church.