Thomas J. Peterson

Thomas John Peterson, a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and a man of humor, integrity, strength, and sarcasm, left us on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 27, 2025. As a life-long Ladysmith resident, Tom contributed to his community, ran a successful dairy farm, raised a family, hunted, fished, and lived his life as he saw fit.

Tom and his buddy (and future brother-in-law) John had many adventures growing up. Tom was John’s ride or die and the frequent trouble they caused provided stories they told throughout their lives. When Tom met John’s sister Roz, Tom told him he would have to find a new ride. Rozana Jez married Tom on January 7, 1961 and created a life of adventure for their three children; Leif of Ladysmith, Eric of Eagle River, Alaska, and Ingrid of North Ferrisburgh, Vermont.

Tom was born on October 6, 1935 and was pre-deceased by his parents, Ted and Irene (Demuth) Peterson and his beloved wife, Rozana. We know he is celebrating seeing Roz again although we also know they are catching up on current events and the Packers.

Throughout the years when their children checked in, they never knew what they would hear. “Mom, what is Dad up to? He’s in the bedroom feeding the falcon. Umm…what falcon?” “How are you doing, Mom? I’m doing okay except I need to talk to your Dad and I can’t get out of the house because of the goat. …but you don’t have a goat…” You really never knew what you were going to hear. And, of course, there was the dynamite but the statute of limitations has expired on that one.

Tom loved to deer hunt with his family and the occasional invited friend. To receive an invitation to hunt was much coveted and not often extended. Even marrying into the family was no guarantee. He told everyone that “you only need one bullet,” and he lived by that.

He taught his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews many life lessons but he most often showed his wisdom through his actions. He didn’t need to say much for us to learn.

In addition to his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and a literal multitude of nieces and nephews, he is survived by his much-loved sister, Carol Jez of Bothell, Washington. We will celebrate his life well lived next summer.

There are not words to describe the loss we feel. Knowing he is with Mom is much comfort but does not diminish the pain of saying goodbye. Drive nuts, Dad.

A celebration will take place next summer.

A complete obituary will also be published in the Ladysmith News.